What does Crystal mean and where does it come from?
The name Crystal originates from the Greek word 'kristallos' meaning 'ice' or 'clear, sparkling.' It became popular in the English-speaking world during the 20th century, especially as a given name. The name gives an impression of clarity, purity, and brilliance, with many naming trends in the late
Cultural significance
Crystal has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of clear, sparkling.
Peak popularity
Reached #9 in 1982 — currently #803 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Crystal?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Crystal?
Crystal works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Crystal Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Crystal Rose
Floral · soft ending
Crystal Mae
Sweet · timeless
Crystal Claire
French influence · crisp
Crystal Jane
Literary · strong
Crystal Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Crystal right now?
Holding steady — currently #803 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #803 | 1,397 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #808 | 1,377 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #813 | 1,347 | ▲ up 52 · +336% births |
| 2020 | #865 | 309 | ▼ down 309 · -45% births |
| 2015 | #556 | 559 | ▼ down 239 · -44% births |
| 2010 | #317 | 1,003 | ▼ down 130 · -46% births |
| 2005 | #187 | 1,855 | ▼ down 55 · -27% births |
| 2000 | #132 | 2,550 | ▼ down 52 · -42% births |
| 1995 | #80 | 4,391 | ▼ down 41 · -47% births |
| 1990 | #39 | 8,218 | ▼ down 18 · -43% births |
| 1985 | #21 | 14,398 | ▼ down 3 · +1% births |
| 1980 | #18 | 14,255 | ▲ up 25 · +128% births |
| 1975 | #43 | 6,244 | ▲ up 58 · +64% births |
| 1970 | #101 | 3,818 | ▲ up 45 · +50% births |
| 1965 | #146 | 2,542 | — |
The story of Crystal
Crystal has been a beloved American name for over 140 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1884. It peaked at #9 in 1982, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. More than 332,131 babies have been named Crystal since 1884. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1006 in 1885 to #803 in 2023. Crystal is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Crystal in 1982:
Crystal by decade
Crystal peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 42 | |
| 1890s | 185 | |
| 1900s | 394 | |
| 1910s | 1,078 | |
| 1920s | 1,086 | |
| 1930s | 816 | |
| 1940s | 1,926 | |
| 1950s | 9,021 | |
| 1960s | 25,056 | |
| 1970s | 74,011 | |
| 1980s ★ | 141,628 | |
| 1990s | 51,250 | |
| 2000s | 18,944 | |
| 2010s | 6,385 | |
| 2020s | 309 | |
What are good nicknames for Crystal?
Common
CryCrystalieCrystaly
Famous people named Crystal
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Crystal (modern Greek athlete)
Crystal brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
C(
Crystal (ancient philosopher)
Crystal bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
C(
Crystal (Greek mythological figure)
Crystal carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
C(
Crystal (Byzantine leader)
Crystal used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Crystal?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Crystal also consider these
How is Crystal written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Crystal
What does the name Crystal mean?
Crystal means "Clear, sparkling" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Crystal?
Crystal is currently ranked #803 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 Crystal?
Crystal originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Crystal?
Crystal is a two-syllable name pronounced K R IH1 S T AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Crystal a common or rare name?
Crystal is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.