Opie

♂ Boy

Pronounced OH-pee /ˈoʊpi/High

Meaning: Short form or nickname derived from Old English name Osbert or Oswald, or used independently; also a friendly diminutive with uncertain origin sometimes linked to Hebrew Opher meaning 'fawn'Medium

In 30 seconds: Opie is a warm, friendly name used in American culture primarily as a nickname or standalone given name, most famously as the name of young Opie Taylor on The Andy Griffith Show. Simple, cheerful, and distinctly American, it carries an air of small-town warmth.

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Origin MediumOld English, Hebrew

MeaningShort form or nickname derived from Old English name Osbert or Oswald, or used independently; also a friendly diminutive with uncertain origin sometimes linked to Hebrew Opher meaning 'fawn'

U.S. rank (2024)#3191 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births38 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2022

Total births (all-time)≈ 678

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Opie as a given name has uncertain etymological roots. It may function as a diminutive of names beginning in 'O' such as Oswald or Oliver, or it may have independent Cornish or Welsh origins. In American usage it has functioned primarily as a standalone name or nickname, with its most famous bearer being the fictional Opie Taylor of Mayberry. In the UK, Opie is also a recognised surname of Cornish origin.

The name gained a second wave of pop-culture recognition through Opie Winston, a character in the television series Sons of Anarchy (2008–2014), giving it a tougher, more modern connotation alongside its classic wholesome image. In both cases the name retains a distinctly American masculine character.

Did you know? Opie Taylor, the red-haired son of Sheriff Andy Taylor in The Andy Griffith Show (1960–1968), played by Ron Howard, made Opie one of the most recognisable names in mid-20th-century American television culture.

Overall data confidence 68%

Behind the Name — Opie — Usage notes and uncertain etymologyThe Andy Griffith Show (1960–1968) — Primary cultural reference establishing Opie as an American name

Variations

Opi

Nicknames

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Opie…

Ollie— friendly two-syllable O- diminutive with the same cheerful warmth

Ozzie— O- nickname-name with the same retro-charming sound

Otis— two-syllable O- name with the same old-fashioned, warm American feel

Toby— friendly two-syllable name with a similar easygoing, approachable character

Frequently Asked

What does the name Opie mean?

Opie has uncertain origins. It may be a diminutive of Old English names beginning with Os-, or a standalone name. It is most associated with its cheerful, warm American cultural persona.

How do you pronounce Opie?

Opie is pronounced OH-pee /ˈoʊpi/ — two syllables with stress on the first.

Is Opie a boy or girl name?

Opie is used almost exclusively as a boy's name.

How popular is Opie?

Opie is a rare given name, most familiar from The Andy Griffith Show and Sons of Anarchy. It has a cult following among parents who appreciate its retro charm and pop-culture history.