Penny Name Meaning & Origin
/PEN-ee/Penny is most likely a name of American origin.
This analysis is AI-assisted and may contain errors. It is not individually reviewed by an onomast. Check important details against reliable sources or a qualified researcher. Analysis generated on September 17, 2026.
Name Origin
Penny is primarily a diminutive form of Penelope, which originates from Greek mythology. The name Penelope means 'weaver' and was borne by the wife of Odysseus in Homer's Odyssey. Over time, Penny has become a standalone given name, especially in English-speaking countries, often used for females but also unisex in some contexts.
Name Ethnicity & Nationality
These estimates show the cultural and national origins most closely associated with this name. They describe the name, not an individual's identity.
-
American (Anglo-American) 87% -
British (Anglo-British) 10% -
Australian (Anglo-Australian) 3%
Try our Sibling Name Generator to explore sibling name ideas that pair well! 🍼
Name Details
- First Name: Penny
- Name Order: Western
- Gender: Unisex
Famous People Named Penny
Famous people named Penny include Penny Marshall, an American actress and director; Penny Lancaster, a British model and photographer; and Penny Chenery, the American owner of the racehorse Secretariat.
Popularity Trend
In 2025, 368 girls in the US were named Penny.
Growth of the name Penny in the US (SSA Data):
Penny Numerology
Numerology is provided for entertainment only and is not scientific.
Soul Urge Number: 11
People with this name tend to be: Intuitive, spiritual and illuminating (Master Number).
Sources & Methodology
US popularity data comes from the Social Security Administration. Origin and ethnicity estimates are generated from name patterns and cultural distributions using AI-assisted analysis.
These results are estimates, not definitive genealogical findings. Learn more about our methodology.