US Popularity:2676
Origin:British
Meaning:fern
If you are looking for a beautiful plant name for baby that is rich in meaning and symbolism, then Fern is a fantastic choice. A girl’s name of Old English origin, Fern derives from the Anglo-Saxon word fearn. This name is also associated with the German word farn and the Sankrit word parṇa. Fern refers to the plant of the same name and those who live among them. Ferns have ancient origins; fossil records of them exist from 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Because they are non-flowering and don’t have seeds, early peoples couldn’t understand how they reproduced, and they became associated with magic and eternal life. Throughout the centuries, they have come to represent different things for different cultures. To the indigenous Maori, ferns symbolize new life and beginnings; in Victorian England, they were emblems of humility and sincerity. These green, leafy, shade-loving plants have also been cultivated for their medicinal properties. With such diverse uses and eclectic meanings, ferns are a dynamic namesake for baby while remaining feminine and pretty.

Fern Name Popularity Data

The Bump Ranking

Overall:Fern is currently #1741 on The Bump
Girl:Fern is currently #776 on The Bump Girl Names

U.S. Births

Overall:Fern is currently #2676 in U.S. births
Girl:Fern is currently #1009 in U.S. births

Yearly Ranking Change:

Year:
2022
#2676
in 2022
+ 111
from 2021
In comparison to the previous year's data
Sources
  • Behind the Name, Fern, July 2008

  • WordSense, Fern

  • Online Etymology Dictionary, fern(n.)

  • Name Doctor, Fern

  • Collins Dictionary, Fern

Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process.
Not sure you have the perfect name? Search to add more baby names to your My Favorites list.