Choosing a baby name is a significant decision, and the name Liberty carries a powerful message. It evokes a sense of independence, freedom, and individuality, making it a compelling choice for parents seeking a meaningful name for their daughter. Let’s delve into the popularity and origins of Liberty, and explore names with similar sounds and meanings.
Liberty Name Popularity
How popular is the name Liberty? Here’s a look at its historical trend, based on data from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
The name "Liberty" experienced periods of near complete dormancy in the early 20th century. Before 1918 it was essentially unused and would be again until the 1970s.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1917 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1918 | 620 | 91 | 0.0085% |
| 1919 | 1,254 | 10 | 0.001% |
| 1920-1970 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1971 | 2,423 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1972 | 2,121 | 8 | 0.0006% |
| 1973 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1974 | 1,503 | 26 | 0.002% |
| 1975 | 1,407 | 33 | 0.0026% |
| 1976 | 551 | 262 | 0.0203% |
| 1977 | 2,144 | 11 | 0.0008% |
| 1978 | 1,711 | 22 | 0.0016% |
| 1979 | 1,954 | 16 | 0.0011% |
| 1980 | 2,427 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1981 | 1,899 | 19 | 0.0013% |
| 1982 | 2,827 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1983 | 2,296 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1984 | 2,721 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1985 | 2,640 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1986 | 1,325 | 51 | 0.0034% |
| 1987 | 2,738 | 8 | 0.0005% |
| 1988 | 2,633 | 10 | 0.0006% |
| 1989 | 2,368 | 16 | 0.001% |
| 1990 | 2,966 | 9 | 0.0005% |
| 1991 | 2,836 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1992 | 2,303 | 19 | 0.0012% |
| 1993 | 2,103 | 24 | 0.0015% |
| 1994 | 1,969 | 29 | 0.0019% |
| 1995 | 1,514 | 55 | 0.0036% |
| 1996 | 2,019 | 26 | 0.0017% |
| 1997 | 2,038 | 27 | 0.0018% |
| 1998 | 1,361 | 76 | 0.0051% |
| 1999 | 1,140 | 121 | 0.0081% |
| 2000 | 1,050 | 147 | 0.0096% |
| 2001 | 750 | 271 | 0.018% |
| 2002 | 475 | 558 | 0.0372% |
| 2003 | 486 | 558 | 0.0367% |
| 2004 | 406 | 712 | 0.0467% |
| 2005 | 489 | 585 | 0.0383% |
| 2006 | 535 | 518 | 0.0331% |
| 2007 | 619 | 438 | 0.0278% |
| 2008 | 600 | 461 | 0.0298% |
| 2009 | 510 | 550 | 0.0368% |
| 2010 | 493 | 559 | 0.0388% |
| 2011 | 553 | 477 | 0.0335% |
| 2012 | 576 | 459 | 0.0322% |
| 2013 | 510 | 530 | 0.0372% |
| 2014 | 545 | 513 | 0.0352% |
| 2015 | 537 | 526 | 0.0362% |
| 2016 | 516 | 542 | 0.0376% |
| 2017 | 549 | 485 | 0.0347% |
| 2018 | 542 | 495 | 0.036% |
| 2019 | 623 | 395 | 0.0292% |
| 2020 | 659 | 384 | 0.0302% |
| 2021 | 604 | 419 | 0.0343% |
| 2022 | 765 | 332 | 0.0252% |
| 2023 | 880 | 256 | 0.0198% |
(Data via SSA.gov)
The table shows that Liberty‘s popularity has fluctuated significantly. The name saw a surge in 1976, likely influenced by the United States Bicentennial celebrations. Since 2000, Liberty has seen a steady presence, consistently ranking within the top 1000 names. In 2004 it was ranked 406 out of all names. While not a top 10 name, its consistent presence suggests a quiet but steady appreciation for its meaning and sound.
Names Like Liberty
If you’re drawn to the sound or sentiment of Liberty, consider these alternatives:
Names that Sound Like Liberty:
- Laberta: (German) "Bright, famous"
Names with Similar Meanings:
While no name directly translates to "freedom" in the same way as Liberty, these names evoke similar qualities:
- Alberta: (German) "Noble, bright, famous"
- Auberta: (French) "Illustrious because of noble descent."
- Auberte: (German) "Noble, bright, famous"
- Berty: (German) "Noble, bright, famous; bright promise; bright fame"
- Eberta: (European) "Bright"
- Elberta: (English) "Noble, bright, famous"
- Filberta: (German) "Very bright"
- Gilberta: (German) "Bright promise"
- Gilberte: (German) "Bright promise"
- Huberta: (German) "Brilliant mind"
- Libet: (English)
- Reberta: (German) "Bright fame"
- Roberta: (German) "Bright fame"
- Roberto: (German) "Bright fame"
- Ruberta: (German) "Bright fame"
- Uberta: (Italian)
- Yuberta: (Italian)
Siblings of Liberty
Names that are often chosen for siblings of Liberty:
- Merit: (English) "Boundary gate"
- Wyatt: (English) "Brave in battle"
- Willa: (German) "Will helmet, protection"
Conclusion
Liberty is a unique and meaningful name choice, rich in history and symbolism. Its association with freedom and independence makes it a powerful statement. While not always a chart-topper, its consistent use reflects an enduring appeal. Whether you choose Liberty itself or a similar-sounding or similarly meaningful name, you’re giving your child a name with depth and character.
