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Nell Girl

Popularity: #800 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationNEL / nɛl

English; Latin; Greek

Meaning

Latin: bright, shining; Greek: light

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Nell has its roots in the Latin name "Agnella," which is a diminutive form of "Agnus," meaning "lamb." This Latin origin transitioned into Old French as "Nelle," which was a common form used in medieval times. The name entered the English language during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, evolving into various forms such as "Nellie" and "Nelly." Over time, Nell became a standalone name, often associated with the meanings of purity and innocence, reflecting its etymological connection to the lamb.

Historically, Nell has been borne by notable figures, including Nell Gwyn, a celebrated actress and mistress of King Charles II of England in the 17th century. Her prominence in the Restoration period contributed to the name's cultural resonance. Additionally, the name appears in literature, such as in the works of Charles Dickens, where characters named Nell often embody virtue and resilience. The name's enduring presence in English literature and history has helped maintain its significance through the centuries.

Culturally, Nell has been associated with various symbolic meanings, often linked to qualities of gentleness and warmth. The diminutive form "Nellie" has also been widely used, particularly in affectionate contexts. The name's simplicity and melodic quality have contributed to its lasting appeal, making it a cherished choice in various cultural narratives. Overall, Nell encapsulates a blend of historical depth and cultural significance, reflecting its journey through language and society.

Trend Summary

Nell has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, reflecting a broader trend towards vintage names.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Nella
  • Nellie

International Variants

  • Nél (Hungarian)
  • Nella (Italian)
  • Nellie (English)

Famous people named Nell

Nell Carter is an actress and singer best known for Gimme a Break!, Ain't Misbehavin', and The Nell Carter Show.

Fictional characters named Nell

Nell is a fictional character from the novel and film Nell. She is a young woman raised in isolation who struggles to communicate with the outside world after being discovered by a doctor and a psychologist.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Nell was first seen in the United States in 1880. Nell has ranked as high as #368 nationally, which occurred in 1917, and has been most popular in Alabama, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky. In the past 5 years the name Nell has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Nell (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CO 15
17%
IL 14
16%
NY 11
13%
MN 8
9%
VA 8
9%
GA 7
8%
MA 7
8%
CA 7
8%
NC 5
6%
UT 5
6%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188077
188175
1882103
1883116
1884120
1885151
1886175
1887146
1888188
1889194
1890221
1891190
1892216
1893187
1894215
1895247
1896215
1897209
1898246
1899192
1900256
1901205
1902247
1903206
1904226
1905229
1906241
1907261
1908288
1909277
1910318
1911322
1912422
1913491
1914530
1915689
1916722
1917766
1918687
1919666
1920661
1921760
1922647
1923624
1924635
1925627
1926531
1927562
1928498
1929489
1930511
1931456
1932483
1933443
1934427
1935390
1936351
1937321
1938331
1939271
1940296
1941240
1942261
1943225
1944176
1945184
1946197
1947181
1948182
1949132
1950157
1951140
1952128
1953137
1954110
195597
1956106
195781
195888
195978
196085
196167
196242
196353
196449
196537
196630
196729
196832
196938
197036
197135
197234
197342
197443
197534
197628
197726
197826
197936
198040
198122
198228
198329
198428
198524
198622
198729
198825
198924
199031
199121
199220
199319
199419
199518
199636
199732
199832
199931
200028
200135
200223
200323
200419
200527
200630
200724
200820
200930
201024
201132
201232
201344
201442
201561
201670
201787
201872
2019115
202079
202196
2022119
2023123
2024150