Find out how popular the first name Hoss has been for the last 30 years (from 1994 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Hoss by gender

Based on the last 30 years of data, Hoss is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 11 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Hoss.

The history of the first name Hoss

The name Hoss is believed to have its origins in the English language, specifically as a shortened form of the word "horse." It is thought to have emerged as a nickname or pet name in the late 18th or early 19th century, during a time when horses played a crucial role in transportation and daily life.

The earliest recorded use of the name Hoss can be traced back to the 19th century in various literary works and historical records. One notable example is found in Mark Twain's novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," published in 1884, where the character Hoss Williams is mentioned.

Throughout history, the name Hoss has been associated with individuals known for their strength, resilience, and hardworking nature, much like the animal it is derived from. One of the most famous bearers of this name was Hoss Cartwright, a fictional character from the popular television series "Bonanza," which aired from 1959 to 1973. Portrayed by actor Dan Blocker (1928-1972), Hoss Cartwright was the gentle giant of the Cartwright family and became an iconic figure in American pop culture.

Another notable individual with the name Hoss was Hoss Prather (1886-1972), a professional baseball player who played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Giants in the early 20th century. He was known for his powerful hitting and earned the nickname "Hoss" due to his large stature and physical strength.

In the world of motorsports, Hoss Ellington (1913-1995) was a legendary race car driver who competed in the Indianapolis 500 and other major racing events during the mid-20th century. His fearless driving style and numerous victories on the track earned him a place in the Motorsports Hall of Fame.

Another historical figure who bore the name Hoss was Hoss Brock (1917-2003), a World War II veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart. After serving in the military, he became a respected farmer and community leader in his hometown of Brock, Texas.

While the name Hoss may not be as common today as it once was, its unique history and association with strength, resilience, and hard work have made it a memorable and enduring part of the English language and cultural heritage.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Hoss was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Hoss, please contact us.

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