Rising since 2005, #2,833 for boys today.
Popularity of Wolfe since 1994
Babies named Wolfe per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 11 |
| 2000s | 28 |
| 2010s | 214 |
| 2020s | 277 |
Meaning & origin
Wolfe is a modern English given name drawn from the Old English word for wolf, a fierce and adaptable animal. Since it was first recorded in the U.S. in 1994, the name has steadily climbed in popularity, ranking 2833rd in 2025 (1 in 38,820 boys). Its peak year was 2022, and it has been rising consistently since 2005. Wolfe is most common in California and Texas, reflecting a broader trend toward surname-style names from the natural world. The name appeals to parents seeking a strong, brief, and distinctive choice.
Wolfe is an English surname turned given name, derived from the Old English 'wulf', meaning 'wolf'. It originated as a nickname for someone thought to resemble a wolf in character or appearance, or as a byname for a fierce warrior. The use of Wolfe as a first name is a modern adoption, particularly in the United States, and has been gaining traction since the 1990s.
Where Wolfe is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Wolf
Sibling names for Wolfe
Names that share Wolfe's style, for a brother or sister.
