All about the name

Neil

Female

« Neil is an Irish origin name meaning "cloud" or "champion". »

#13496 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Neil is a name of Irish origin and it means "cloud" or "champion". The name has been used for centuries in Ireland and Scotland, with the earliest records dating back to the 12th century. In Irish mythology, Neil was the name of one of the three sons of Niall of the Nine Hostages. This legendary king was said to have had nine different fathers, hence his name. The three sons were known as the "Three Collas" and they played significant roles in early Irish history. The name Neil has been used by many notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of the name was Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon. Another notable Neil is Neil Diamond, a popular singer-songwriter from the United States. Neil has also been used as a given name for boys in other parts of the world. In Scotland, it is often associated with the Highlands and has been used by many families there for generations. In England, the name has been used since at least the 14th century. Today, Neil remains a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and meaningful name for their sons. It is a name that is easy to pronounce and has a positive connotation thanks to its association with champions and heroes throughout history. Whether you are Irish, Scottish or simply appreciate a good name, Neil is a great choice for your little one.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Neil since 1880

Total births
385
Total since 1880
Peak year
1970
14 births
in 1990
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years