Heather

Meaning

Evergreen flowering shrub

Derived from the Middle English word 'hather', referring to the small-flowered evergreen plant that thrives on the rocky heaths of Scotland and northern England. It became a popular given name in the late 19th century and peaked as a top-ten name in the United States during the 1970s and 80s.

Popularity

Less common today

Heather isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #19 in 1990.

Births over time

US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).

Where it's most popular

Famous Namesakes

Heather GrahamCelebrity
American actress known for 'Boogie Nights'
Heather LocklearCelebrity
American television actress famous for 'Melrose Place'
Heather MorrisCelebrity
Actress and dancer known for the series 'Glee'
Heather WatsonAthlete
British professional tennis player
Heather ChandlerFictional
The leader of the popular clique in the film 'Heathers' · Heathers
Heather DukeFictional
A member of the titular clique in the film 'Heathers' · Heathers
Heather McNamaraFictional
A member of the titular clique in the film 'Heathers' · Heathers
Heather HeadleyMusician
Grammy and Tony Award-winning singer and actress
Heather O'RourkeCelebrity
Child actress known for the 'Poltergeist' film series