Crystal

“Clear, sparkling”

Greek origin · Unisex name

♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls

#803US 2023

1.4kBirths / yr

→Stable

332.1kAll-time births

📅 Since 1884🏆 27 years in top 1001.13% of births at peak

How to pronounce Crystal

KRIST·ul

/ˈkrɪst.əl/ · stress on KRIST · 2 syllables

“Clear, sparkling”

Greek origin · Unisex name

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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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

How popular is Crystal right now?

Holding steady — currently #803 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1885–2023#803 · Top 0.59%

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

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	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Crystal

Best Year1980Rank #18

Peak Count14,398

Average Rank#438

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1900 - 202328 years

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:

Jennifer Jessica Amanda Sarah Melissa

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

Crystal (modern Greek athlete)

Crystal brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.

Crystal (ancient philosopher)

Crystal bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.

Crystal (Greek mythological figure)

Crystal carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.

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 2025

Explore →

What names sound and feel like Crystal?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Crystal also consider these

Crysal

English · Crystal, clear glass

Crstal

American · English

Crystral

USA · clear, brilliant, sparkling

English · clear and brilliant

Drystal

American · a creative spelling

How is Crystal written in other languages?

Christal

ENGLISH

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.