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Lincoln
Pronounced LINK-un /ˈlɪŋ.kən/High
Meaning: Lake colony; settlement by the poolHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Lincoln originated as a place name for the English city of Lincoln, derived from the Brittonic Lindon (lake) combined with the Latin colonia (colony). It passed into use as an English surname and later a given name.
As a given name, Lincoln surged in the United States following the presidency of Abraham Lincoln (1861–1865). In the 21st century it re-emerged as a fashionable first name, climbing into the U.S. top 50 boys' names.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865)16th President of the United States, who led the country through the Civil War and abolished slavery.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Lincoln mean?
Lincoln comes from an Old English place name meaning 'lake colony' or 'settlement by the pool,' referring to the English city of Lincoln.
How do you pronounce Lincoln?
It is pronounced LINK-un /ˈlɪŋ.kən/ — two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Lincoln a boy or girl name?
Lincoln is primarily used as a boy's name in the United States.
How popular is Lincoln?
Lincoln has been consistently rising in the U.S., ranking among the top 100 boys' names in recent years.