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Ivy Unisex

Popularity: #36 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationEYE-vee / /ˈaɪ.vi/

English; Latin

Meaning

English: climbing plant; Latin: vine

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Ivy originates from the Old English word "ifig," which refers to the climbing plant known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions. This term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic *ibaz, which also denoted the ivy plant. The name entered the English language through the influence of Old French during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, where it was adopted as a given name, reflecting the plant's significance in various cultures as a symbol of fidelity and eternal life.

Historically, ivy has been associated with various cultural and religious contexts. In ancient Greece, ivy was linked to Dionysus, the god of wine, symbolizing rebirth and immortality. The plant's ability to cling and grow in challenging environments made it a metaphor for enduring love and fidelity, which contributed to its use as a name. In Christian symbolism, ivy is often associated with the Virgin Mary and is mentioned in medieval texts as a representation of the eternal nature of the soul. The name Ivy appears in literature and art throughout the centuries, reflecting its deep-rooted connections to themes of loyalty and everlasting bonds.

The name gained further cultural resonance through its appearances in various literary works and its association with notable figures. In the 19th century, Ivy became more widely recognized as a feminine given name, partly due to its use in poetry and novels that emphasized nature and the virtues of the ivy plant. The name's enduring appeal can be attributed to its rich historical significance, as well as its associations with strength and fidelity, which have made it a lasting choice in various cultures. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Ivie" have emerged, reflecting the name's adaptability and continued relevance.

Trend Summary

Ivy has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, ranking among the top names for girls in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Ivie

International Variants

  • Ivy (English)
  • Ivi (Italian)
  • Ivie (English)

Famous people named Ivy

Ivy Queen is a singer and songwriter best known for La Vida Es Así, Te He Querido Tanto, and Yo Soy Una Diva.

Ivy Baker Priest is a businesswoman and author best known for her work as the U.S. Treasurer and her book The Woman Who Wasn't There.

Fictional characters named Ivy

Ivy Pepper is a fictional character from the TV series Gotham. She is a young version of Poison Ivy, a villainess with the ability to control plants and a deep connection to nature.

Ivy is a fictional character from the video game series League of Legends. She is a champion known for her abilities to manipulate plants and control the battlefield with her nature-themed powers.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Ivy was first seen in the United States in 1880. Ivy has ranked as high as #89 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Ivy has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Ivy (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 476
9%
CA 465
9%
FL 277
5%
OH 250
5%
NC 203
4%
NY 200
4%
GA 180
4%
IL 178
3%
PA 175
3%
TN 164
3%
VA 143
3%
KY 141
3%
IN 134
3%
AZ 128
2%
UT 124
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188033
188138
188246
188344
188447
188550
188661
188756
188872
188961
189066
189162
189276
189383
189483
189575
189678
189789
189885
189967
190076
190168
190276
190366
190470
190575
190664
190770
190867
190969
191072
191187
1912111
1913106
1914128
1915162
1916188
1917154
1918159
1919147
1920142
1921143
1922142
1923102
1924125
1925124
1926121
1927112
192889
192979
193094
193198
193280
193387
193476
193571
193670
193769
193874
193972
194066
194169
194271
194371
194461
194561
194661
1947119
1948124
1949129
1950159
1951165
1952197
1953204
1954194
1955268
1956319
1957354
1958332
1959318
1960273
1961210
1962205
1963176
1964179
1965198
1966154
1967134
1968193
1969241
1970254
1971214
1972270
1973237
1974264
1975288
1976206
1977251
1978266
1979323
1980282
1981279
1982293
1983292
1984259
1985378
1986370
1987370
1988305
1989278
1990266
1991228
1992286
1993422
1994482
1995614
1996646
1997688
1998728
1999759
2000880
2001836
2002721
2003749
2004803
20051,045
2006985
20071,127
20081,122
20091,021
20101,090
20111,215
20121,698
20132,099
20142,292
20152,505
20162,824
20172,782
20183,285
20193,688
20203,840
20214,394
20224,809
20235,057
20245,323