Etta is a distinctive girls' name in United States, ranking #930 in 2025 with 281 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2021 with 285 births ranking #932. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 1,378.9%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 5,720 girls born was named Etta. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Etta is a short form of Henrietta and other names ending in etta. It feels vintage and lively, with a strong standalone identity despite its nickname roots.
The name has long been used as a familiar shorter form, but it also gained recognition in its own right through well-known bearers such as singer Etta James. That helped give it a stylish retro appeal.