Forrest
Forrest is a boy name of English origin meaning “Dweller near the forest”, pronounced FOR-est. It ranked #374 in the United States in 2025, given to 850 babies, and peaked at #173 in 1913. Common nicknames: Ford, Resty, Foss.
How popular is Forrest in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Forrest mean, and where does it come from?
Forrest is an English name derived from the Old French "forest," meaning "woodland" or "forest." It originated as a surname for someone who lived near or worked in a forest. The name gained prominence through Nathan Bedford Forrest, a controversial figure in American Civil War history. In modern pop culture, it is best known as the name of the title character in the novel and Academy Award-winning film Forrest Gump (1994), played by Tom Hanks. Forrest appeals to parents who love nature-inspired names with a strong, grounded feel and a sense of the American landscape.
How is Forrest used around the world?
Forrest is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Forrest?
Famous People Named Forrest
- Forrest Gump — iconic fictional character played by Tom Hanks
- Forrest Whitaker — American actor and director
- Forrest Mars Sr. — American businessman and candy magnate
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Sibling Name Ideas for Forrest
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Forrest mean?
Forrest is a boy name of English origin meaning "Dweller near the forest." Forrest is an English name derived from the Old French "forest," meaning "woodland" or "forest." It originated as a surname for someone who lived near or worked in a forest.
How do you pronounce Forrest?
Forrest is pronounced FOR-est. Common variations include Forest, Forester, Forrester.
Is Forrest a boy name?
Yes, Forrest is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Ford, Resty, Foss.