Boy · 1950th of 23,106
Cove
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
1,422
Total Births
145
Years of Data
2024
Peak Popularity Year
248
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Cove stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name 'Cove' originates from English, specifically derived from the Old English 'cofa', meaning shelter or small bay. It has evolved through the language from 'cofa' in Old English to its modern form. The name carries traits of tranquility and nature, and it does not have biblical relevance. While it gained popularity mainly in the 20th century, it remains a unique choice today.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/koʊv/
Origin
English
Etymology
The name 'Cove' is derived from the Old English word 'cofa', meaning 'shelter' or 'cove'. It refers to a small, sheltered bay or recess in a coastline.
Meaning
shelter, small bay, recess
Language Evolution
Old English: cofa, Middle English: cove, Modern English: Cove
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in the 20th century as a given name and is often used for places, particularly in coastal areas.
Variants & Derivatives
Covey, Covy
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Cove is perceived as a unique and nature-inspired name, often associated with tranquility and coastal beauty.
Famous People
Cove G. McLean, an American artist, Cove C. H. G. Weller, a notable figure in environmental conservation
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Rising
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 248 peak births in 2024
Geographic Spread
Popular across 18 US states, with strongest presence in Utah
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 3 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 2 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 3 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 8289th of 24088 | 121 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 1950th of 23106 | 929 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 4510th of 30306 | 372 |