What does Beryl mean and where does it come from?
Beryl is an English name derived from the gem of the same name, which is a mineral that comes in various colors. The name has been in use since the 19th century and is often associated with clarity and beauty. Beryl has variations in other languages, such as 'Berilo' in Spanish. Notable figures with
Cultural significance
Beryl has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #375 in 1920 — currently #1435 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Beryl?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Beryl?
Beryl works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Beryl Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Beryl Rose
Floral · soft ending
Beryl Mae
Sweet · timeless
Beryl Claire
French influence · crisp
Beryl Jane
Literary · strong
Beryl Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Beryl right now?
Holding steady — currently #1435 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1435 | 765 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1440 | 745 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1445 | 715 | ▲ up 8726 · +7844% births |
| 2020 | #10171 | 9 | ▲ up 682 |
| 2015 | #10853 | 9 | ▼ down 414 · -10% births |
| 2010 | #10439 | 10 | ▲ up 482 · +11% births |
| 2005 | #10921 | 9 | ▼ down 2383 · -18% births |
| 2000 | #8538 | 11 | ▼ down 1491 · -8% births |
| 1995 | #7047 | 12 | ▼ down 178 |
| 1990 | #6869 | 12 | ▲ up 1460 · +71% births |
| 1985 | #8329 | 7 | ▼ down 909 · -12% births |
| 1980 | #7420 | 8 | ▼ down 1904 · -20% births |
| 1975 | #5516 | 10 | ▼ down 455 |
| 1970 | #5061 | 10 | ▼ down 3064 · -71% births |
| 1965 | #1997 | 34 | — |
The story of Beryl
Beryl has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 12,432 babies have received this name. Once ranked #519 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1435 in 2023. Beryl is used for both genders: 81% female and 19% male.
Names that peaked alongside Beryl in 1920:
Beryl by decade
Beryl peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 163 | |
| 1890s | 401 | |
| 1900s | 746 | |
| 1910s | 2,282 | |
| 1920s ★ | 2,876 | |
| 1930s | 2,053 | |
| 1940s | 1,589 | |
| 1950s | 1,294 | |
| 1960s | 533 | |
| 1970s | 134 | |
| 1980s | 121 | |
| 1990s | 90 | |
| 2000s | 46 | |
| 2010s | 95 | |
| 2020s | 9 | |
What are good nicknames for Beryl?
What names sound and feel like Beryl?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Beryl also consider these
Common questions about the name Beryl
What does the name Beryl mean?
Beryl means "English" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Beryl?
Beryl is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Beryl?
Beryl originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Beryl?
Beryl is a two-syllable name pronounced B EH1 R AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Beryl a common or rare name?
Beryl is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.