Tupelo

English from Creek, "swamp tree"

A rare botanical gem with a stylish -o ending, Tupelo is brought to you by Nameberry guest writer Tallulah, who has a soft spot for Southern names:

“They feel warm, rooted, and full of stories. Lately, I’ve been completely smitten with the name Tupelo. The name comes from Native American Creek words meaning “swamp tree” which I love because Tupelo trees grow where other things can’t and that makes the name feel quietly powerful — like resilience wrapped in charm. I think it’s nature inspired without being overly floral, and unique without trying too hard.

“Also, Tupelo, Mississippi, is the city where Elvis Presley was born, and that gives the name this cool, timeless Southern soul. If ever give my baby a Southern name, I love the idea of it being one that feels this special, this grounded, and this full of heart and creativity.”

Elvis Presley’s granddaughter Riley Keough named her daughter Tupelo.