There is an undeniable energy to the name Chase. It is a “verb name” in the truest sense, implying movement, pursuit, and ambition. While many occupational names feel rustic (like Mason or Cooper), Chase feels sleek, preppy, and spirited. It occupies a unique stylistic space: it is rugged enough for an outdoorsman yet polished enough for a country club. It carries the “Country Club Cowboy” vibe perfectly, balancing refinement with grit.
Historically, Chase began as a surname before finding its footing as a given name. It exploded in popularity during the 1990s and has since settled into the realm of a “modern classic.” It is recognizable and easy to spell, yet it lacks the overexposure of names like Liam or Noah. It feels familiar but retains a dash of competitive edge.
Verdict: Chase is an excellent choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers the punchy, one-syllable coolness that parents currently crave (similar to Tate, Cole, or Brooks) but comes with a more dynamic meaning. It is a name for a child who is going places, fast.
Chase Overview
- Meaning: Hunter, Huntsman
- Gender: All
- Origin: Old French, English
- Pronunciation: “Chays”
- Popularity: 125th in the US
- Nicknames: Chacha, Ace, Chasey
- Variations: Chase, Chayse, Chasen
- Namesakes: Chase Masterson, Chase Osborn
What Does Chase Mean?
At its core, Chase is a name of action. It translates to “huntsman” or “hunter.” Unlike names that describe a static state (like “Son of John” or “Fair”), Chase describes an event or an action.
The etymology is quite literal. In the Middle Ages, the “chase” referred to the hunt itself. Over time, it became an occupational name applied to the person leading the hunt. Therefore, the name carries connotations of leadership, provision, and high energy. It is also a common surname (1), famously attached to banking institutions and comedians alike.
Where Does the Name Chase Come From?
The name Chase is derived from the Middle English word chase, which stems from the Old French chacier. It comes from the Old French word meaning “to catch” or “to seize.”
While it has French roots, it is thoroughly Anglicized today. It was initially used as a surname in England for families involved in the hunts of nobility. Its transition to a first name is a distinctly American phenomenon, gaining traction alongside other surname-names in the 20th century. It is not biblical, though it shares the brisk, one-syllable cadence of biblical names like Seth or Jude.
How Popular is the Name Chase?
Chase is a modern staple that has proven it has staying power. While SSA data shows it appeared sporadically in the late 1800s (likely due to family surnames being used as first names), it was functionally rare until the mid-20th century.
Its true rise to stardom began in the 1980s. It climbed aggressively, cracking the Top 100 in 1995. It remained a Top 100 favorite for two decades, peaking in popularity around 2009. This era coincided with the trend of “preppy” boy names.
Currently, Chase has cooled slightly, moving out of the Top 100 but remaining comfortably in the Top 150. This is actually a “sweet spot” for parents: it is a known, accepted name, but your child likely won’t be one of three Chases in their kindergarten class. It is a settled, reliable choice rather than a trendy flash in the pan (2).
How Do I Pronounce Chase?
The name Chase is pronounced phonetically as “CHAYS.” It rhymes with “base” or “ace.” Because of its single syllable and hard consonant start, it is difficult to mispronounce.
Is Chase a Boy or Girl Name?
Chase is technically a unisex name, though usage is heavily skewed toward boys. In the US, it is predominantly a male name. However, parents looking for a bold, edgy middle name for a daughter (e.g., Sophia Chase) have utilized it. It also occasionally serves as a nickname for the girl’s name Chelsea.
Variations of Chase
While Chase is the standard spelling, parents looking to make the name unique often play with the vowels. However, be aware that altering the spelling of such a common word-name can lead to frequent corrections.
- Chace: A popular variation famously used by actor Chace Crawford.
- Chayse: Adds a modern, phonetic twist.
- Chasen: A longer, surname-style variation that allows Chase to be the nickname.
- Cayce: A variation closer to Casey but with a similar feel.
Nicknames for Chase
One-syllable names are notoriously difficult to shorten. Usually, nicknames for Chase involve making the name longer or playing on the specific sound.
- Ace: By dropping the “Ch,” you get this cool, retro nickname (meaning here).
- C-Man: A playful option often used by family members.
- Chasey: An affectionate diminutive, usually for young children.
- Chez: A cool, relaxed variation.
- Racer: A rhyming nickname that plays on the speed implied by the name.
Names Similar to Chase
If you love the vibe of Chase but want something slightly different, consider these names that share its energetic, short, or preppy qualities.
- Cole: Shares the single-syllable, cool-guy factor.
- Grant: Another solid, historic surname-name that feels preppy.
- Reid: Short, red-haired, and sophisticated.
- Tate: A rising star that feels very similar in energy to Chase.
- Hunter: The literal synonym for Chase, though two syllables.
- Ryder: Another verb-name that implies movement.
- Sydney: If you like the gender-neutral but established vibe.
- Jasper: Shares the English countryside feel.
- Miles: A classic name that feels active (implying distance).
Middle Names for Chase
Because Chase is a short, punchy first name, it pairs best with a middle name that has two or more syllables. This creates a balanced rhythm.
Classic Middle Names
These pairings ground Chase, giving it a timeless, sophisticated feel suitable for a future CEO.
- Chase Alexander
- Chase William
- Chase Thomas
- Chase Benjamin
- Chase Francis
- Chase James (A rare exception where the one-syllable flow works well).
Modern and Trendy Middle Names
Lean into the energetic vibe of Chase with these contemporary choices.
Unique and Nature-Inspired Middle Names
Soften the “hunter” meaning with a name connected to the natural world.
- Chase Orion
- Chase Wilder
- Chase Forest
- Chase River
- Chase Peregrine
Sibling Names for Chase
If you have a Chase at home, you need sibling names that match its active, clear-cut style.
For a Brother
You want a name that is masculine and modern but established.
- Blake: Another one-syllable hit that matches Chase perfectly.
- Wesley: Softens the set but keeps the English surname vibe.
- Parker: Shares the preppy, occupational origin.
- Cooper: A very common stylistic match.
- Carlos: A distinct option that shares the “C” and “S” sounds.
- Sean: A classic that doesn’t compete for attention.
For a Sister
For girls, look for names that are spunky and not overly frilly.
- Chloe: A cute alliterative match that remains distinct.
- Paige: The ultimate stylistic match for a girl; short and polished.
- Claire: Simple, elegant, and French in origin like Chase.
- Camille: A softer French pairing.
- Charlotte: A classic that balances the modern feel of Chase.
- Brooke: Matches the nature/surname energy.
Famous People Named Chase
Chase has transitioned from a surname to a first name for many celebrities, particularly athletes and actors born in the last 30 years.
- Chase Elliott: A champion NASCAR driver, fitting for a name that implies speed.
- Chace Crawford: American actor best known for his role as Nate Archibald in Gossip Girl.
- Chase Utley: A celebrated American Major League Baseball second baseman.
- Chase Rice: Country music singer and reality TV personality.
- Chevy Chase: While a nickname (born Cornelius), he is perhaps the most famous bearer of the name in comedy.
- Chase Masterson: American actress known for Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.
- Chase Budinger: Former NBA player and professional volleyball player.
Chase in Pop Culture
The name Chase appears frequently in fiction, often used for characters who are popular, athletic, or heroic.
- Chase: The German Shepherd police dog leader in the massive hit PAW Patrol.
- Chase Matthews: The male lead in the Nickelodeon series Zoey 101.
- Dr. Robert Chase: A central character in the medical drama House M.D.
- Chase Davenport: A bionic superhero in the Disney XD series Lab Rats.
- Cordelia Chase: A major character in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel.
- Harrison Chase: A detective character on General Hospital.
FAQs About the Name Chase
Do Any Other Names Mean the Same Thing As Chase?
Yes. The most direct synonym is Hunter. Other names related to the hunt include Fowler, Hearne, Odin (associated with the Wild Hunt), Artemis (Goddess of the hunt), and Theron.
Is the Name Chase Short for Any Other Names?
Chase is commonly a standalone name. However, it can occasionally serve as a shortened version of Chasen, Chauncy, Charles, or even Cassius.
Is the Name Chase Too Popular Due to PAW Patrol?
For toddlers, the association with the police dog Chase from PAW Patrol is very strong. However, because Chase was a well-established name for adults and teens long before the show aired, it does not feel exclusively like a “cartoon name” in the way a name like “Kermit” might.
Is Chase Considered a Biblical Name?
No, Chase does not appear in the Bible. It is of French and English medieval origin. If you want a similar sounding name with biblical roots, consider Caleb, Seth, or Jace (often short for Jason, which appears in Acts).
What is the Best Spelling: Chase or Chace?
“Chase” is the standard spelling and will require the least amount of correction throughout a child’s life. “Chace” is a valid variation, famously used by actor Chace Crawford, but it is significantly rarer and may be mistaken for a typo.
Can Chase Be Used as a Girl’s Name?
Yes, though it is rare. It follows the trend of using “boy names” for girls, similar to Parker, Blake, or Cameron. When used for a girl, it projects confidence and a sporty vibe.
Does Chase Have a Good Meaning?
Yes, specifically for parents who value ambition. While “Hunter” is a literal occupation, “Chase” implies the pursuit itself. It suggests a child who is goal-oriented, driven, and active, rather than passive.
