Oliver
Olive tree — a boy name of Latin origin
Popularity of Oliver in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Oliver
Oliver derives from the Old French name Olivier, which is generally traced to the Latin word "oliva" meaning "olive tree," a symbol of peace and dignity. Some scholars also connect it to the Old Norse name Áleifr (ancestor's descendant), which was adapted into Norman French. The name rose to prominence through the medieval French epic La Chanson de Roland, in which Olivier is the wise and loyal companion of the hero Roland. Charles Dickens further embedded the name in English literary culture with Oliver Twist. Oliver has dominated the top of baby name charts in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand for much of the 21st century.
Oliver Around the World
Oliver is used in 14 languages worldwide, with 33+ international variants.
Female FormOliviera
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Oliver
Famous People Named Oliver
- Oliver Cromwell — Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England
- Oliver Stone — American film director
- Oliver Sacks — British-American neurologist and author
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Sibling Name Ideas for Oliver
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Oliver mean?
Oliver is a boy name of Latin origin meaning "Olive tree." Oliver derives from the Old French name Olivier, which is generally traced to the Latin word "oliva" meaning "olive tree," a symbol of peace and dignity. Some scholars also connect it to the Old Norse name Áleifr (ancestor's descendant), which was adapted into Norman French.
How do you pronounce Oliver?
Oliver is pronounced AH-lih-ver. Common variations include Olivier, Oliverio, Olivér.
Is Oliver a boy name?
Yes, Oliver is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Ollie, Oli, Noll.
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