Holly: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: ho-hlle-e
Origin: United Kingdom
gender-female

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Aug 14, 2024 · 1 min read
Region Origin: Western Europe
Meaning: Holly tree

Holly is a given name of English origin, derived from the Old English word "holen" and the French word "houx," both of which mean "holly tree". The name is either locational, derived from the Old English "hol lēah" meaning "[dwelling by] the clearing by the hollow," or descriptive, from "hol-ēage" meaning "hollow-eyed". In Ireland, it was also used as a translation of the name Mac Cuilinn, which is derived from "cuileann," the Gaelic name of the holly tree. The name Holly first appeared as a feminine name in the 20th century and has been associated with Christmas decorations, as the holly tree's distinctive leaves and red berries are commonly used in holiday decor.

Holly Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Holly is currently #148 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Girl: Holly is currently #64 on Kiindred Girl Names
gender-male Overall Nature: Holly is currently #58 on Kiindred Nature Names
gender-female Girl Nature: Holly is currently #33 on Kiindred Girl Nature Names
gender-male Overall Unique: Holly is currently #145 on Kiindred Unique Names
gender-female Girl Unique: Holly is currently #64 on Kiindred Girl Unique Names

Popularity Trend Chart

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