What does Cybil mean and where does it come from?
Cybil is derived from the Greek word 'Kybēlē', referring to a type of prophetess or oracle in ancient religions. The name has been popularized in several English-speaking countries, particularly from the late 19th century onwards. Notable variations include Sybil and Sibyl. The name has cultural sig
Cultural significance
Cybil has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of prophetess.
Peak popularity
Reached #1902 in 1975 — currently #11405 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cybil?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cybil?
Cybil works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cybil Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cybil Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cybil Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cybil Claire
French influence · crisp
Cybil Jane
Literary · strong
Cybil Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cybil right now?
Falling — down 1559 spots — currently #11405 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #11405 | 8 | ▼ down 1559 · -20% births |
| 2022 | #9846 | 10 | ▼ down 1262 · -17% births |
| 2021 | #8584 | 12 | ▲ up 2644 · +50% births |
| 2020 | #11228 | 8 | ▼ down 2167 · -33% births |
| 2015 | #9061 | 12 | ▲ up 7957 · +140% births |
| 2005 | #17018 | 5 | ▼ down 7603 · -50% births |
| 2000 | #9415 | 10 | ▼ down 1066 |
| 1995 | #8349 | 10 | ▼ down 761 · -9% births |
| 1990 | #7588 | 11 | ▲ up 1221 · +57% births |
| 1985 | #8809 | 7 | ▼ down 2619 · -36% births |
| 1980 | #6190 | 11 | ▼ down 4288 · -77% births |
| 1975 | #1902 | 48 | ▲ up 7157 · +860% births |
| 1970 | #9059 | 5 | — |
The story of Cybil
Cybil is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 558 total births recorded, Cybil remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #9059 in 1970, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11405 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cybil in 1975:
Cybil by decade
Cybil peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s ★ | 269 | |
| 1980s | 89 | |
| 1990s | 79 | |
| 2000s | 47 | |
| 2010s | 66 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎Cybil has only 558 total recorded births since 1970 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Cybil?
What names sound and feel like Cybil?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cybil also consider these
Common questions about the name Cybil
What does the name Cybil mean?
Cybil means "prophetess" — 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 Cybil?
Cybil is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Cybil have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Cybil?
Cybil 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 Cybil?
Cybil is a two-syllable name pronounced S AY1 B IH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cybil trending right now?
Cybil is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.