Olive: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced AH-luhv · 2 syllables
Olive means “olive tree”, from Latin and English.
Medieval form of the Latin saint's name Oliva "olive"; revived in the 19th century when flower and plant names became fashionable. The surname is topographical, often representing an Anglicization of continental European surnames such as Spanish Oliva.
- Meaning
- olive tree
- Origin
- Latin, English
- Pronunciation
- AH-luhv
- US rank (2025)
- #197
- US babies a year
- about 1,707 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1890
- Style
- Vintage, Comeback, Rising, Nature
How popular is Olive?
Olive was the #197 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,604 babies. It’s rising: up 68% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1890.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #197 |
| England & Wales | #99 |
| Scotland | #341 |
| Northern Ireland | #397 |
| Ireland | #249 |
| Canada | #185 |
| Australia | #61 |
How old are people named Olive?
Half of US adults named Olive are older than 68; most are between 18 and 94. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Olive
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Olive
What does the name Olive mean?
Olive means “olive tree”. It comes from Latin and English.
How do you pronounce Olive?
Olive is pronounced AH-luhv.
How popular is the name Olive?
Olive was the #197 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,604 babies. It’s rising: up 68% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1890.
How old are people named Olive?
Half of US adults named Olive are older than 68. Most are between 18 and 94.