King
King first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2017, when 2,696 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 786.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is King popular?
Rising King has climbed over the past decade, given to more boys now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 9,057 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 20,440 | |
| 2000s | 1,950 | |
| 1990s | 439 | |
| 1980s | 335 | |
| 1970s | 316 | |
| 1960s | 454 | |
| 1950s | 708 | |
| 1940s | 818 | |
| 1930s | 801 | |
| 1920s | 998 | |
| 1910s | 795 | |
| 1900s | 277 | |
| 1890s | 233 | |
| 1880s | 229 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does King mean?
The English vocabulary word 'king' (Old English 'cyning') used directly as a given name. A transferred surname/word-name rather than an etymological 'king' name from another root.
Names like King
english names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with King
Popular english names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare King
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name King mean?
King means king. The English vocabulary word 'king' (Old English 'cyning') used directly as a given name. A transferred surname/word-name rather than an etymological 'king' name from another root.
What is the origin of the name King?
King is of english origin.
How do you pronounce King?
King is pronounced “king.”
Is King a boy or a girl name?
King is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is King a popular name right now?
King has climbed over the past decade, given to more boys now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name King?
In 2025, King ranked #405 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name King most popular?
King was most popular in 2017, when about 2,696 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to King?
Names similar to King include Legend, Kingston, Drake, Remington, Byron.
What names go well with King?
english names that pair well with King include Dorothy, Nancy, Edward, Joan, Mason.