Find out how popular the first name Nebraska has been for the last 31 years (from 1993 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Nebraska by gender

Based on the last 31 years of data, Nebraska is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Nebraska.

The history of the first name Nebraska

The name Nebraska is a relatively modern name that originated in the late 19th century. It is derived from the native Siouan language spoken by the Otoe and Omaha tribes, who inhabited the region that became the state of Nebraska. The word "Nebraska" is believed to mean "flat water" or "broad water," referring to the Platte River that flows through the state.

Despite its recent origin, the name Nebraska has gained some popularity and cultural significance in the United States. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Nebraska was in reference to the Nebraska Territory, which was established in 1854. The territory was named after the Platte River, which was known to the native tribes as the "Nebraska River."

The first person of note to bear the name Nebraska was Nebraska Briggs, an American actor and singer who was born in 1876. Briggs performed in vaudeville and on Broadway, and was known for her distinctive name. Another notable individual named Nebraska was Nebraska Sedalia Jones, a Native American woman born in 1888, who was a member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes.

In the realm of literature, the name Nebraska was immortalized in Willa Cather's novel "O Pioneers!," published in 1913. The novel's protagonist, Alexandra Bergson, is a young woman who inherits her family's farm in the fictional town of Hanover, Nebraska. The novel is considered a classic of American literature and has played a role in popularizing the name Nebraska.

More recently, Nebraska Pruitt was an American singer-songwriter and musician who was active in the 1960s and 1970s. Pruitt was known for her folk and country music style and released several albums during her career. Another notable individual named Nebraska was Nebraska Mondragon, an American artist and activist who was born in 1970 and is known for her work in promoting Native American and indigenous rights.

While not a common name, Nebraska has gained a unique place in American culture, reflecting the history and heritage of the Midwestern region. Its association with the state of Nebraska and the native tribes who once inhabited the area has given the name a distinctive character and significance.

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 Nebraska was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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