Greek names are among the most popular names given to babies in America according to the data from the US Social Security Administration and are particularly popular in California where they rank in the top 50.
In 2021, 1,808 babies were given the name 'Sophia' in California, where it ranked 5th most popular, whilst the name was given to some 12,496 nationally. Meanwhile, its alternate spelling, Sofia, was given to 1,305 babies and ranked 9th most popular in California, with some 6,327 babies given the name nationally.
Following are the Greek names listed in the top 50 as compiled by US media site Stacker.
#5. Sophia
Sophia is a name of Greek origin meaning “wisdom”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 1,808
National
– Rank: #6
– Number of babies in 2021: 12,496
#9. Sofia
Sofia is a derivation of the Greek name Sophia, meaning “wisdom”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 1,305
National
– Rank: #18
– Number of babies in 2021: 6,933
#20. Penelope
Penelope is a name of Greek origin, meaning “weaver”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 902
National
– Rank: #23
– Number of babies in 2021: 6,327
#22. Chloe (tie)
Chloe is a name of Greek origin meaning “blooming”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 777
National
– Rank: #24
– Number of babies in 2021: 6,311
#24. Maya
Maya has several possible origins and meanings. It may be a derivation of Maia, an ancient goddess of Greek mythology. Some believe it is of Hebrew origin, meaning “water”. Maya also means “illusion’ in Sanskrit.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 771
National
– Rank: #55
– Number of babies in 2021: 4,050
#25. Zoe
Zoe is a name of Greek origin meaning “life”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 761
National
– Rank: #42
– Number of babies in 2021: 4,687
#33. Ellie
Ellie is a name of Greek origin meaning “shining light”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 680
National
– Rank: #30
– Number of babies in 2021: 5,835
#34. Elena
Elena is a name of Greek origin meaning “bright”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 676
National
– Rank: #53
– Number of babies in 2021: 4,252
#38. Zoey
Zoey is a name of Greek origin meaning “life”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 636
National
– Rank: #38
– Number of babies in 2021: 5,179
#49. Genesis
Genesis is a name of Greek origin meaning “beginning”.
California
– Number of babies in 2021: 538