Meaning, origin, history
Derrell is a name of American origin, derived from the Old English words "deor" meaning dear or beloved, and "hlyf" which means shield. Therefore, Derrell means "dear shield." This name has been used for centuries in England but it was not very popular until the mid-20th century when it started to gain traction among parents looking for unique names for their sons.
The name Derrell is often associated with strength and protection due to its meaning. It is also considered a unisex name, although it is more commonly used for boys. Some variations of this name include Derrol, Deryll, Derril, and Derrall.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Derrell. For example, American football player Derrell Revis was a cornerback in the NFL from 2007 to 2019. He is considered one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history. Another notable figure is Derrell McKinney, an American jazz musician who played trumpet and flugelhorn.
Despite its unique sound, Derrell remains relatively uncommon compared to other names with similar meanings like Derrick or Daryl. However, those who choose this name often do so because they appreciate its uniqueness and historical significance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Derrell since 1880
Total births
5,848
Total since 1880
Peak year
1987
136 births
in 2023
13
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-30%
↘
vs previous 5 years