Boy · 278th of 23,106
Phoenix
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
39,000
Total Births
145
Years of Data
2020
Peak Popularity Year
2,648
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Phoenix 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 Phoenix originates from Greek, meaning rebirth and renewal. It has evolved through several historical forms and is associated with the mythical bird that symbolizes immortality. The name carries traits of resilience and transformation, with no significant biblical relevance. Its popularity surged in the 19th century, and today it is viewed positively in modern culture.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈfiːnɪks/
Origin
Greek
Etymology
The name 'Phoenix' derives from the Greek word 'phoinix', which refers to a mythical bird that is said to rise from its ashes, symbolizing rebirth and renewal.
Meaning
rebirth, renewal, immortality
Language Evolution
Phoenician, Ancient Greek, Latin, Modern English
Historical Usage
The name Phoenix gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the 19th century, particularly due to its associations with mythology and symbolism of transformation.
Variants & Derivatives
Phoenicia, Phenix, Finix
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, the name Phoenix is perceived positively, often associated with strength, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges.
Famous People
Phoenix Wright (fictional character), Joaquin Phoenix (actor), Phoenix (band)
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Declining
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Declining
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 2,648 peak births in 2020
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in Nevada
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 8 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 7 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 8 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 8406th of 10718 | 15 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 2042nd of 16616 | 532 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 510th of 24088 | 7,849 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 278th of 23106 | 15,124 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 6188th of 19264 | 122 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 2999th of 27321 | 564 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 876th of 35406 | 4,543 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 366th of 30306 | 10,251 |