US Popularity Rank: 4598

Origin: American

Meaning: Hill; Enclosure; Of Pennsylvania

Penn is a boy’s name of English origin, meaning “hill” or “enclosure,” also considered a diminutive of the US state, Pennsylvania. A simple yet smart name, Penn has shared its title with distinguished writers, actors, and activists over the years, although often as a last name. Today, Gossip Girl fans might recognize the name borne by actor Penn Badgley who played the character Dan Humphrey in the popular TV show. Once considered an unusual choice for baby, Penn is now considered a sophisticated one-syllable name destined for excellence.