Ives - Name Meaning and Popularity -

Meaning of Ives

Ives carries the hushed strength of an ancient oak and the lyrical charm of a poetic tune. Its roots reach back to medieval France and England, springing from the Latin Ivo and the old Germanic word for the yew tree—a symbol of endurance and timeless grace. It nods to Saint Ivo, the compassionate lawyer of Brittany, and to the innovative composer Charles Ives, weaving together threads of justice and creativity. In English, it’s pronounced “eye-vz,” while in French it takes on a softer “eev,” lending a continental wink to its crisp, two-syllable form. Despite its centuries-old pedigree, Ives remains delightfully rare—only five newborn boys in the U.S. wore the name in 2024—making it a refined choice for parents who want deep roots, a playful wink to the past, and plenty of room to grow.