Rising since 2020, #3,314 for boys today.
Popularity of Wave since 1897
Babies named Wave per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 12 | 0 |
| 1900s | 6 | 0 |
| 1910s | 42 | 0 |
| 1920s | 40 | 0 |
| 1930s | 0 | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 | 0 |
| 2020s | 16 | 126 |
Meaning & origin
Wave is a striking word name that entered the U.S. naming landscape only in 2020, ranking 3,314th in 2025 with about 1 in 48,802 newborns. Its rapid rise peaked in 2024, suggesting it resonates with parents seeking a modern, nature-inspired choice. California leads as the top state for Wave, aligning with coastal and trend-forward naming preferences. Despite its short history, Wave fits a broader pattern of short, energetic word names like River and Storm, though it remains far less common. Its meaning of ocean movement appeals to families valuing fluidity and innovation, but its novelty means it lacks the depth of historical use or cultural ties found in more established names.
Wave is a recent word name drawn directly from the English vocabulary word 'wave,' which entered Middle English from Old English 'wafian' meaning 'to fluctuate.' Its adoption as a given name reflects the modern trend of using evocative nature words as personal names, especially for boys. The name gained visibility only in the 2020s, with no historical precedent as a traditional name.
Where Wave is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Wave
Names that share Wave's style, for a brother or sister.
