Meaning, origin, history
Pearl is a unique and captivating female given name of English origin. It is derived from the precious gemstone pearl, which is formed within the shell of certain mollusks. The name Pearl has been used throughout history, with its earliest known usage dating back to the 13th century in England.
The meaning of the name Pearl is "precious stone." Throughout history, pearls have been highly valued and considered symbols of wisdom, purity, and beauty. In many cultures, they are associated with the moon and its phases due to their lustrous appearance and the fact that they are formed inside a shell, much like how moonlight reflects off water.
One notable historical figure named Pearl is Pearl S. Buck, an American writer who won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel "The Good Earth" in 1932. Buck was born in 1892 in Hillsboro, West Virginia, to missionary parents and spent much of her early life in China. Her experiences living abroad inspired many of her works, including her most famous novels.
In literature, the name Pearl appears prominently in John Steinbeck's novel "East of Eden," published in 1952. The main character, Samuel Hamilton, has a daughter named Pearl, who plays an essential role in the story and is considered one of the novel's central characters.
Today, the name Pearl continues to be used for girls born around the world, with its popularity varying by region and culture. It remains a timeless choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughters.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Pearle since 1880
Total births
2,821
Total since 1880
Peak year
1919
103 births
in 2018
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-50%
↘
vs previous 5 years