Home β€Ί Baby Names Directory β€Ί Oakes

Oakes

β™‚ Boy

Pronounced OHKS /oʊks/High

Meaning: Dweller near the oak treesHigh

In 30 seconds: Oakes is a nature-inspired English surname turned first name, meaning 'one who lives near the oaks.' Strong and grounded, it appeals to parents who love single-syllable names with deep roots in the landscape.
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Origin HighOld English
MeaningDweller near the oak trees
U.S. rank (2024)#3025 β†— Rising
2024 U.S. births41 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2024
Total births (all-time)β‰ˆ 226

Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data

peak 202420122024

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Oakes began as an English topographic surname for families who lived near or among oak trees. The Old English word ac (oak) gave rise to surnames like Oak, Oaks, and Oakes. By the 19th century, Oakes was a recognized surname in England and America.

The transition of Oakes from surname to first name reflects the broader modern trend of using nature-rich last names as given names. It sits comfortably alongside names like Brooks, Hayes, and Forrest. Oakes retains a sense of rugged English countryside charm.

Did you know? The oak tree has been a symbol of strength, endurance, and nobility throughout English and Celtic cultures for millennia β€” making Oakes a name that carries centuries of natural symbolism.
Overall data confidence 90%
Dictionary of English Surnames β€” Reaney & Wilson β€” Origin of surname OakesBehind the Name β€” Oakes β€” Usage as a given name

Variations

OakOaksAiken

Nicknames

Oak

Famous Bearers

  • β˜…Oakes Ames (1804–1873)
    American businessman and congressman who was central to financing the Union Pacific Railroad.

If you like Oakes…

Brooksβ€” English nature surname used as a first name
Hayesβ€” Single-syllable English place-name surname
Birchβ€” Tree-derived nature name with similar feel

Frequently Asked

What does the name Oakes mean?

Oakes means 'one who lives near the oak trees,' derived from the Old English word for oak.

How do you pronounce Oakes?

Oakes is pronounced OHKS, rhyming with 'folks,' in a single syllable.

Is Oakes a boy or girl name?

Oakes is primarily used as a boy's name, though like many surname-derived names it could be used for either gender.

How popular is Oakes?

Oakes is a rare given name but has seen growing interest as parents embrace nature-themed surname names.