Penelope
Penelope first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2019, when 6,734 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 6,225.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Penelope popular?
Near its peak Penelope is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2019.
| 2020s | 37,005 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 47,614 | |
| 2000s | 5,677 | |
| 1990s | 795 | |
| 1980s | 609 | |
| 1970s | 1,750 | |
| 1960s | 2,871 | |
| 1950s | 4,758 | |
| 1940s | 6,383 | |
| 1930s | 1,109 | |
| 1920s | 562 | |
| 1910s | 248 | |
| 1900s | 29 | |
| 1890s | 36 | |
| 1880s | 34 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Penelope mean?
Borne by the faithful wife of Odysseus. The meaning is uncertain: one line derives it from 'pene' ('thread, weft') giving 'weaver', while another ties it to 'penelops', a type of duck or waterfowl. Both readings are considered folk etymologies by some classicists, so the sense is unsettled.
Nicknames for Penelope
- Penny
- Nell
- Poppy
Variants & spellings
- Pénélope
- Penelopa
Names like Penelope
greek names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Penelope
Popular greek names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Penelope
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Penelope mean?
Penelope means Weaver (disputed). Borne by the faithful wife of Odysseus. The meaning is uncertain: one line derives it from 'pene' ('thread, weft') giving 'weaver', while another ties it to 'penelops', a type of duck or waterfowl. Both readings are considered folk etymologies by some classicists, so the sense is unsettled.
What is the origin of the name Penelope?
Penelope is of greek origin.
How do you pronounce Penelope?
Penelope is pronounced “peh-NEL-oh-pee.”
Is Penelope a boy or a girl name?
Penelope is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Penelope a popular name right now?
Penelope is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2019.
How popular is the name Penelope?
In 2025, Penelope ranked #22 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Penelope most popular?
Penelope was most popular in 2019, when about 6,734 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Penelope?
Common nicknames for Penelope include Penny, Nell, Poppy.
What names are similar to Penelope?
Names similar to Penelope include Ophelia, Persephone, Daphne, Calliope.
What names go well with Penelope?
greek names that pair well with Penelope include Christopher, Cynthia, Andrew, Helen, Timothy.