Rising since 1993, #715 for boys today.
Popularity of Wes since 1880
Babies named Wes per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 23 |
| 1890s | 0 |
| 1900s | 0 |
| 1910s | 19 |
| 1920s | 39 |
| 1930s | 51 |
| 1940s | 160 |
| 1950s | 485 |
| 1960s | 1,110 |
| 1970s | 571 |
| 1980s | 392 |
| 1990s | 228 |
| 2000s | 480 |
| 2010s | 1,397 |
| 2020s | 1,831 |
Meaning & origin
Wes has been in use as a given name since the 19th century, first recorded in 1880. It has experienced a resurgence in popularity, rising steadily since 1993, and reached its peak rank in 2025 at 715th. The name is most popular in New Hampshire, Montana, and Idaho. Its simplicity and strong, friendly sound make it a favored choice for parents seeking a short, classic name without the formality of the longer Wesley. Despite its historical roots, Wes feels modern and approachable, fitting well with contemporary naming trends that favor succinct, one-syllable names.
Wes is a diminutive of Wesley, itself derived from an English surname meaning 'western meadow' (Old English west 'west' + lēah 'clearing, meadow'). It became common as an independent given name in the 20th century, particularly in the United States.
Where Wes 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.
“Wes” around the world
Where Wes lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Quebec
7
babies in 2025
Sources: Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Sibling names for Wes
Names that share Wes's style, for a brother or sister.
