Orson is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #406 in 2020 with 100 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2021 with 119 births ranking #375. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 3,233.3%. In 2020, approximately 1 in every 2,890 boys born was named Orson. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Orson is a compact literary name usually explained as bear cub. It feels unusual but well formed, with a sturdy, slightly old-fashioned charm.
The name is known from medieval romance and later from figures such as Orson Welles. Its rarity has helped it stay distinctive without feeling invented.