A 1910s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Vernon since 1880
Babies named Vernon per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 636 |
| 1890s | 1,215 |
| 1900s | 2,053 |
| 1910s | 16,967 |
| 1920s | 29,432 |
| 1930s | 22,197 |
| 1940s | 20,038 |
| 1950s | 20,133 |
| 1960s | 14,409 |
| 1970s | 7,722 |
| 1980s | 5,375 |
| 1990s | 2,839 |
| 2000s | 1,562 |
| 2010s | 1,160 |
| 2020s | 675 |
Meaning & origin
Vernon is a classic name that peaked in popularity in 1919, ranking among the top names for boys during the early 20th century. In recent years, it has seen a resurgence, climbing in usage since 2019. The name was most frequently given in states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. While no longer common, Vernon retains a traditional, sturdy feel that appeals to parents seeking a name with a long history. Its simplicity and connection to nature via the alder tree give it a timeless quality, though it remains a relatively rare choice today.
Vernon is a name of French origin, derived from a place name composed of the Gaulish element 'verno' meaning 'alder'. It was brought to England after the Norman Conquest and has been used as a surname and given name. The name saw particular popularity in the United States in the early 20th century.
Where Vernon is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Vern
Sibling names for Vernon
Names that share Vernon's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Dorothy, Mildred, Ruth, Eleanor, Beatrice, Ardis, Laraine, Lavonne, Mozelle, Valarie, Venita, Verlene, Vernice, Arlean, Delsie, Velva, Vernelle, Vernetta, Vernette, Vernia, Vernita, Veva, Voncile, Berneda, Delorse, Dosha, Etna, Glenis, Larayne, Onalee, Shelvy, Valma, Velinda, Velmer, Verline, Vermell, Verneda, Vernessa, Vona, Vonna, Willadean, Avonell, Birdell, Delva, Elverna, Ercel, Floyce, Leontyne, Lorell, Loveta, Melvie, Norrine, Sherma, Thelda, Valla, Venora, Verlena, Vermelle, Vernadine, Verniece, Vernona, Vicci, Vici, Vonceil, Wylene, Olamae, Eulanda, Mabeline, Vanice, Velina, Velvie, Venida, Veona, Verbie, Veretta, Verleen, Verlinda, Verneal, Verneice, Vernestine, Vernica, Vickii
Brothers: Ernest, Clarence, Harold, Raymond, Lloyd, Laverne, Luverne, Vernard, Vernell, Boyce, Carlis, Clarance, Delmas, Loring, Mervyn, Verdell, Verle, Verlin, Verlon, Verlyn, Vinson, Waymon, Alvester, Carlon, Clearance, Delmon, Derwood, Eulis, Hoyle, Melven, Vernis, Vertis, Vinton, Wilbern, Woodford, Carnel, Craven, Ervey, Hersey, Lyndel, Oather, Orlen, Ranson, Trueman, Veldon, Vencent, Verbon, Verdis, Verlan, Vermon, Vernel, Bearl, Argel, Denvil, Glendel, Granvel, Marl, Mearle, Vick, Vinal, Vincen, Virgal
Names like Vernon
Names whose popularity has moved with Vernon's over the last 50 years.
