Choosing a name for your baby is a significant decision. If you’re considering Rodney, this article provides a comprehensive overview of its popularity, variations, and similar-sounding names. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the name Rodney.
Rodney Name Popularity
How popular is the name Rodney? Examining historical data reveals interesting trends. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides data on name popularity, allowing us to track its usage over time.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 624 | 5 | 0.0014% |
| 1911 | 442 | 15 | 0.004% |
| 1912 | 559 | 21 | 0.0042% |
| 1913 | 394 | 76 | 0.0134% |
| 1914 | 350 | 137 | 0.0197% |
| 1915 | 362 | 178 | 0.0196% |
| 1916 | 350 | 202 | 0.0209% |
| 1917 | 389 | 170 | 0.017% |
| 1918 | 375 | 208 | 0.0194% |
| 1919 | 318 | 267 | 0.0255% |
| 1920 | 303 | 323 | 0.0291% |
| 1921 | 308 | 309 | 0.027% |
| 1922 | 278 | 366 | 0.0329% |
| 1923 | 288 | 344 | 0.0307% |
| 1924 | 290 | 353 | 0.0304% |
| 1925 | 269 | 411 | 0.0364% |
| 1926 | 259 | 435 | 0.0395% |
| 1927 | 238 | 525 | 0.0474% |
| 1928 | 224 | 559 | 0.0522% |
| 1929 | 232 | 506 | 0.0489% |
| 1930 | 205 | 612 | 0.0586% |
| 1931 | 184 | 686 | 0.0695% |
| 1932 | 172 | 811 | 0.0821% |
| 1933 | 172 | 758 | 0.0814% |
| 1934 | 155 | 916 | 0.0948% |
| 1935 | 149 | 1,010 | 0.1039% |
| 1936 | 150 | 996 | 0.1034% |
| 1937 | 149 | 1,007 | 0.1022% |
| 1938 | 132 | 1,285 | 0.1255% |
| 1939 | 120 | 1,438 | 0.1414% |
| 1940 | 133 | 1,380 | 0.1298% |
| 1941 | 126 | 1,548 | 0.1375% |
| 1942 | 121 | 1,772 | 0.1403% |
| 1943 | 118 | 1,974 | 0.1512% |
| 1944 | 123 | 1,778 | 0.1435% |
| 1945 | 104 | 2,181 | 0.1788% |
| 1946 | 93 | 3,293 | 0.2232% |
| 1947 | 94 | 3,558 | 0.2131% |
| 1948 | 92 | 3,455 | 0.2164% |
| 1949 | 87 | 3,821 | 0.2375% |
| 1950 | 88 | 3,852 | 0.2392% |
| 1951 | 84 | 4,292 | 0.2531% |
| 1952 | 84 | 4,400 | 0.2521% |
| 1953 | 58 | 6,533 | 0.3691% |
| 1954 | 66 | 5,958 | 0.3259% |
| 1955 | 65 | 6,044 | 0.3286% |
| 1956 | 65 | 6,063 | 0.321% |
| 1957 | 70 | 5,864 | 0.3047% |
| 1958 | 65 | 5,856 | 0.3099% |
| 1959 | 67 | 5,915 | 0.3113% |
| 1960 | 68 | 5,857 | 0.3091% |
| 1961 | 72 | 5,658 | 0.2997% |
| 1962 | 76 | 5,437 | 0.2962% |
| 1963 | 76 | 5,188 | 0.289% |
| 1964 | 59 | 6,074 | 0.3451% |
| 1965 | 33 | 11,081 | 0.6776% |
| 1966 | 35 | 10,264 | 0.6574% |
| 1967 | 37 | 8,440 | 0.5562% |
| 1968 | 42 | 7,511 | 0.5002% |
| 1969 | 49 | 6,668 | 0.4328% |
| 1970 | 55 | 5,860 | 0.3682% |
| 1971 | 59 | 5,195 | 0.3457% |
| 1972 | 65 | 4,365 | 0.3205% |
| 1973 | 68 | 4,050 | 0.3124% |
| 1974 | 72 | 3,838 | 0.2953% |
| 1975 | 76 | 3,572 | 0.278% |
| 1976 | 88 | 2,982 | 0.2314% |
| 1977 | 96 | 2,702 | 0.2005% |
| 1978 | 102 | 2,544 | 0.1892% |
| 1979 | 118 | 2,290 | 0.1624% |
| 1980 | 120 | 2,252 | 0.154% |
| 1981 | 135 | 2,011 | 0.1368% |
| 1982 | 146 | 1,923 | 0.1287% |
| 1983 | 161 | 1,662 | 0.1126% |
| 1984 | 165 | 1,594 | 0.1072% |
| 1985 | 168 | 1,606 | 0.1058% |
| 1986 | 165 | 1,606 | 0.1064% |
| 1987 | 170 | 1,581 | 0.1036% |
| 1988 | 160 | 1,711 | 0.1098% |
| 1989 | 177 | 1,710 | 0.106% |
| 1990 | 181 | 1,686 | 0.1017% |
| 1991 | 198 | 1,544 | 0.0947% |
| 1992 | 209 | 1,452 | 0.091% |
| 1993 | 226 | 1,284 | 0.0824% |
| 1994 | 244 | 1,165 | 0.0759% |
| 1995 | 256 | 1,073 | 0.0712% |
| 1996 | 264 | 1,033 | 0.069% |
| 1997 | 281 | 966 | 0.0653% |
| 1998 | 320 | 827 | 0.0553% |
| 1999 | 322 | 834 | 0.0557% |
| 2000 | 342 | 769 | 0.0503% |
| 2001 | 365 | 694 | 0.0461% |
| 2002 | 370 | 680 | 0.0454% |
| 2003 | 385 | 646 | 0.0425% |
| 2004 | 433 | 570 | 0.0374% |
| 2005 | 444 | 547 | 0.0358% |
| 2006 | 445 | 570 | 0.0364% |
| 2007 | 441 | 599 | 0.038% |
| 2008 | 505 | 499 | 0.0323% |
| 2009 | 490 | 520 | 0.0348% |
| 2010 | 559 | 409 | 0.0284% |
| 2011 | 538 | 430 | 0.0302% |
| 2012 | 587 | 388 | 0.0272% |
| 2013 | 609 | 354 | 0.0249% |
| 2014 | 692 | 300 | 0.0206% |
| 2015 | 685 | 312 | 0.0214% |
| 2016 | 710 | 288 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 731 | 262 | 0.0188% |
| 2018 | 771 | 232 | 0.0169% |
| 2019 | 801 | 212 | 0.0157% |
| 2020 | 871 | 206 | 0.0162% |
| 2021 | 992 | 170 | 0.0139% |
| 2022 | 995 | 174 | 0.0132% |
| 2023 | 1,134 | 133 | 0.0103% |
The data reveals that Rodney experienced peak popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1965, it reached its highest rank at #33, with over 11,000 births. Since then, its popularity has gradually declined, with the name ranking at #1,134 in 2023.
Meaning and Origin of Rodney
The name Rodney has Old English origins. It is derived from the elements "hroda," meaning "famous," and "eg," meaning "island." Therefore, the name Rodney can be interpreted as "Roda’s island" or "island near the clearing". This topographic association gives the name a connection to nature and a sense of place.
Variations and Similar Names
If you like Rodney but want to explore variations or similar-sounding names, consider these options:
- Rodnee: A slight variation that maintains the core sound and meaning.
- Rodnie: Another variation, offering a similar feel to Rodney.
- Royden: Shares a similar sound and has English origins, meaning "rye hill."
- Ryden: Another name with a similar sound, meaning "horseman" or "rider."
Names Like Rodney
- Roy: A classic and strong name, sharing similar sound qualities.
- Cody: A popular name with a friendly and approachable feel.
- Dusty: A unique and somewhat vintage name.
- Randy: A classic name that has some similar sound qualities.
Lists Featuring the Name Rodney
While the original extract mentions lists featuring the name Rodney, it doesn’t provide specific examples. Generally, names are often compiled into lists based on popularity trends, origins, or shared characteristics. You might find Rodney in lists such as:
- Classic boy names with English origins
- Names popular in the mid-20th century
- Names with topographic or nature-related meanings
Conclusion
Rodney is a name with a rich history and a connection to nature. While its popularity has decreased in recent years, it remains a solid choice with a classic appeal. By understanding its origins, popularity trends, and variations, you can make an informed decision about whether Rodney is the right name for your baby boy.