River Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationRIV-er / /ˈrɪvər/English; Latin
Meaning
English: a flowing body of water; Latin: river
Historical & Cultural Background
The name River has gained popularity in recent decades, particularly in English-speaking countries. It is often associated with nature and tranquility, reflecting the serene qualities of a river. The name has been used for both boys and girls, though it is more commonly given to boys in contemporary usage. River is also a term used in various cultures to symbolize life and movement.
Trend Summary
The name River has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.
Similar Names
Variants
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International Variants
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Famous people named River
River Phoenix was an American actor known for his roles in films such as 'Stand by Me' and 'My Own Private Idaho'.
Fictional characters named River
River Song is a character from the 'Doctor Who' franchise, known for her complex relationship with the Doctor.
River Tam is a character in the 'Firefly' series and its film 'Serenity', recognized for her psychic abilities.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name River was first seen in the United States in 1971. River has ranked as high as #172 nationally, which occurred in 2021, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name River has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for River (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 267 | |
| CA | 244 | |
| FL | 158 | |
| NC | 146 | |
| OH | 145 | |
| TN | 128 | |
| GA | 127 | |
| IN | 102 | |
| VA | 98 | |
| PA | 92 | |
| MI | 91 | |
| AL | 82 | |
| MO | 79 | |
| NY | 78 | |
| IL | 75 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1971 | 6 |
| 1972 | 8 |
| 1974 | 5 |
| 1975 | 7 |
| 1981 | 6 |
| 1982 | 6 |
| 1986 | 5 |
| 1987 | 13 |
| 1988 | 13 |
| 1989 | 40 |
| 1990 | 33 |
| 1991 | 28 |
| 1992 | 37 |
| 1993 | 54 |
| 1994 | 141 |
| 1995 | 278 |
| 1996 | 269 |
| 1997 | 389 |
| 1998 | 435 |
| 1999 | 359 |
| 2000 | 314 |
| 2001 | 323 |
| 2002 | 329 |
| 2003 | 388 |
| 2004 | 420 |
| 2005 | 476 |
| 2006 | 505 |
| 2007 | 464 |
| 2008 | 611 |
| 2009 | 619 |
| 2010 | 634 |
| 2011 | 645 |
| 2012 | 722 |
| 2013 | 830 |
| 2014 | 1,243 |
| 2015 | 1,516 |
| 2016 | 1,852 |
| 2017 | 1,969 |
| 2018 | 2,075 |
| 2019 | 2,371 |
| 2020 | 2,814 |
| 2021 | 3,503 |
| 2022 | 3,494 |
| 2023 | 3,111 |
| 2024 | 3,138 |