Memphis
Memphis is a boy name of Egyptian origin meaning “Enduring and beautiful”, pronounced MEM-fiss. It ranked #640 in the United States in 2025, given to 437 babies, and peaked at #404 in 2021. Common nicknames: Mem, Phis.
How popular is Memphis 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 Memphis mean, and where does it come from?
Memphis was the capital of Old Kingdom Egypt, its name a Greek rendering of Men-nefer, "enduring and beautiful," the pyramid town of Pepi I. Nineteenth-century Americans, who named their new towns after ancient ones, gave it to a city on the Mississippi, and everything the name now carries comes from there: Sun Studio, Stax, Beale Street, Graceland. American records hold it from 1916; it entered the top thousand in 2006 and peaked in 2021. Music is why parents choose it.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Memphis
- Memphis Depay — Dutch international footballer
- Memphis Minnie — American blues guitarist and singer
Similar Names to Memphis
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Sibling Name Ideas for Memphis
Looking for names that pair well with Memphis? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Memphis mean?
Memphis is a boy name of Egyptian origin meaning "Enduring and beautiful." Memphis was the capital of Old Kingdom Egypt, its name a Greek rendering of Men-nefer, "enduring and beautiful," the pyramid town of Pepi I. Nineteenth-century Americans, who named their new towns after ancient ones, gave it to a city on the Mississippi, and everything the name now carries comes from there: Sun Studio, Stax, Beale Street, Graceland.
How do you pronounce Memphis?
Memphis is pronounced MEM-fiss. Common variations include Memfis, Memphys.
Is Memphis a boy name?
Yes, Memphis is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Mem, Phis.