US Popularity:4454
Origin:Celtic
Other Origin(s):Irish
Meaning:Cloud; Champion, hero; Dark
You're onto a winner with this name, that's especially perfect for any dark-haired boy. Nigel, a name of Celtic origin, comes from the Irish name Niall, meaning "champion" or "hero" from niadh or "cloud" from nél. It also has roots in the Latin word niger, which means "dark." The name Niall traveled across Europe for some time, becoming Njall in Scandinavia, then the Latin and Old French Nigellus in Normandy, and finally Nigel in England. It has a classic feel that'll prove to be perfect if baby is an old soul.

Nigel Name Popularity Data

The Bump Ranking

Overall:Nigel is currently #1350 on The Bump
Boy:Nigel is currently #378 on The Bump Boy Names

U.S. Births

Overall:Nigel is currently #4454 in U.S. births
Boy:Nigel is currently #1332 in U.S. births

Yearly Ranking Change:

Year:
2022
#4454
in 2022
- 786
from 2021
In comparison to the previous year's data
Sources
  • Online Etymology Dictionary, Neil, October 2017

  • Name Doctor, Nigel

  • Behind the Name, Neill, January 2022

  • Behind the Name, Nigel, January 2022

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