Oliver
Oliver first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2024, when 15,396 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 14,939.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Oliver popular?
Near its peak Oliver is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2024.
| 2020s | 89,293 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 98,160 | |
| 2000s | 20,935 | |
| 1990s | 6,570 | |
| 1980s | 4,153 | |
| 1970s | 3,732 | |
| 1960s | 3,340 | |
| 1950s | 4,987 | |
| 1940s | 6,057 | |
| 1930s | 6,709 | |
| 1920s | 10,900 | |
| 1910s | 8,657 | |
| 1900s | 2,088 | |
| 1890s | 2,035 | |
| 1880s | 2,287 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Oliver mean?
Oliver is usually traced to the Latin oliva, “olive tree” — a long-standing symbol of peace — though some scholars link it to the Norse Áleifr (an ancestor of Olaf).
Nicknames for Oliver
- Ollie
- Olly
Variants & spellings
- Olivier
- Oliviero
Names like Oliver
Latin names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Oliver
Popular Latin names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Oliver
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Frequently asked questions
What does the name Oliver mean?
Oliver means Olive tree. Oliver is usually traced to the Latin oliva, “olive tree” — a long-standing symbol of peace — though some scholars link it to the Norse Áleifr (an ancestor of Olaf).
What is the origin of the name Oliver?
Oliver is of Latin origin.
How do you pronounce Oliver?
Oliver is pronounced “OL-iv-er.”
Is Oliver a boy or a girl name?
Oliver is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Oliver a popular name right now?
Oliver is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2024.
How popular is the name Oliver?
In 2025, Oliver ranked #3 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Oliver most popular?
Oliver was most popular in 2024, when about 15,396 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Oliver?
Common nicknames for Oliver include Ollie, Olly.
What names are similar to Oliver?
Names similar to Oliver include Theodore, Henry, Leo, Jasper.
What names go well with Oliver?
Latin names that pair well with Oliver include Mark, Amanda, Emily, Olivia, Ava.