What does Campbell mean and where does it come from?
Campbell is a surname that has been adapted into a first name, often given to girls. It originates from the Scottish Gaelic 'Caimbeul,' meaning 'crooked mouth.' It was originally a clan name in Scotland, and over time, it has grown in popularity as a feminine first name. The name is often associated
Cultural significance
Campbell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of caimbeul.
Peak popularity
Reached #663 in 2006 — currently #1029 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Campbell?
Campbell works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Campbell Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Campbell Rose
Floral · soft ending
Campbell Mae
Sweet · timeless
Campbell Claire
French influence · crisp
Campbell Jane
Literary · strong
Campbell Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Campbell right now?
Holding steady — currently #1029 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1029 | 212 | ▲ up 5 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #1034 | 214 | ▲ up 11 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1045 | 205 | ▲ up 145 · +7% births |
| 2020 | #1190 | 192 | ▼ down 59 · -14% births |
| 2015 | #1131 | 224 | ▼ down 374 · -38% births |
| 2010 | #757 | 360 | ▼ down 54 · -7% births |
| 2005 | #703 | 389 | ▲ up 2236 · +710% births |
| 2000 | #2939 | 48 | ▲ up 3035 · +220% births |
| 1995 | #5974 | 15 | ▲ up 3296 · +88% births |
| 1990 | #9270 | 8 | — |
The story of Campbell
Campbell is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1989. A total of 10,911 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9270 in 1990 to #1029 in 2023. Campbell is used for both genders: 54% female and 46% male.
Names that peaked alongside Campbell in 2006:
Campbell by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 20 | |
| 1890s | 18 | |
| 1900s | 17 | |
| 1910s | 152 | |
| 1920s | 190 | |
| 1930s | 95 | |
| 1940s | 131 | |
| 1950s | 106 | |
| 1960s | 93 | |
| 1970s | 91 | |
| 1980s | 108 | |
| 1990s | 890 | |
| 2000s ★ | 4,521 | |
| 2010s | 4,124 | |
| 2020s | 355 | |
What are good nicknames for Campbell?
What names sound and feel like Campbell?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Campbell also consider these
Common questions about the name Campbell
What does the name Campbell mean?
Campbell means "Caimbeul" — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Campbell?
Campbell is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Campbell have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Campbell?
Campbell originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland 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 Campbell?
Campbell is a two-syllable name pronounced K AE1 M B AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Campbell trending right now?
Campbell is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.