Duncan vs Oliver

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Duncan

Boy #1,104 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"dark warrior"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic

Cultural Roots

Scottish Irish British American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,104
Total SSA Count
194
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Dunc, Dunk

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Duncan Rank #1,104
Oliver Rank #3

Oliver is more popular, ranked #3 vs #1104 for Duncan.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Duncan ___

  • Duncan James
  • Duncan Robert
  • Duncan Alistair
  • Duncan Fraser
  • Duncan Ian
  • Duncan Callum

Oliver ___

  • Oliver James
  • Oliver Thomas
  • Oliver William
  • Oliver Henry
  • Oliver John
  • Oliver Benjamin

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Duncan

Callum Alistair Isla Fiona Malcolm

If you choose Oliver

Olivia Charlotte Emma Sophia Amelia

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Duncan or Oliver more popular?

Oliver is more popular, ranked #3 compared to Duncan at #1104 in the United States.

What do Duncan and Oliver mean?

Duncan means "dark warrior" (Scottish Gaelic origin). Oliver means "olive tree" (Latin origin).

Are Duncan and Oliver boy or girl names?

Duncan is primarily a boy name. Oliver is primarily a boy name.

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