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Vaughn

♂ Boy

Pronounced VAWN /vɔːn/High

Meaning: Small; little; from Welsh fychan (small, little, junior) — a diminutive suffix that became a surnameHigh

In 30 seconds: A Welsh surname meaning 'small' or 'little,' from fychan (the junior, the younger). Despite its humble meaning, Vaughn has a sophisticated, one-syllable sound — associated with jazz musician Sarah Vaughan and Vince Vaughn.
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Origin HighWelsh
MeaningSmall; little; from Welsh fychan (small, little, junior) — a diminutive suffix that became a surname
U.S. rank (2024)#1187 ↗ Rising
2024 U.S. births174 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)
Peak year1949
Total births (all-time)≈ 21,180

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 194918812024

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

History & Origin

Vaughn is a Welsh surname from fychan (small, little, junior), an anglicization used to distinguish younger family members (junior) from older ones. It became a hereditary Welsh surname and then a given name.

Vaughn ranked #1187 for boys in 2024.

Did you know? Sarah Vaughan (1924–1990), nicknamed 'The Divine One' and 'Sassy,' is one of the greatest jazz vocalists in history — her four-octave range and extraordinary improvisational ability have influenced every jazz vocalist who came after her.
Overall data confidence 91%
Behind the Name — Vaughn — Welsh etymologyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

VaughanVon

Nicknames

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If you like Vaughn…

Vance— one-syllable V-name with the same sophisticated minimal quality
Beau— one-syllable French-feel name with the same understated elegance
Blaine— one-syllable Welsh/Celtic surname name with the same dignified feel
Wade— one-syllable Old English nature name with the same quiet confidence
Blake— one-syllable Old English surname with the same crisp, polished character

Frequently Asked

What does the name Vaughn mean?

Vaughn means 'small' or 'little,' from Welsh fychan (junior, the younger one).

How do you pronounce Vaughn?

It's said VAWN — one syllable, rhyming with 'dawn.'

Is Vaughn a boy or girl name?

Vaughn is used as a boys' name.

How popular is Vaughn?

Vaughn ranked #1187 for U.S. boys in 2024.