What does Cyril mean and where does it come from?
The name Cyril (Κύριλλος in Greek) has a rich historical context, initially used for males, derived from the Greek word 'kyrios' meaning 'lord.' Over time, it has seen usage as a female name in various cultures. The name is particularly popular in Eastern Orthodox regions and holds significant relig
Cultural significance
Cyril has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #2566 in 1913 — currently #1928 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cyril?
Cyril works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cyril Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cyril Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cyril Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cyril Claire
French influence · crisp
Cyril Jane
Literary · strong
Cyril Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cyril right now?
Holding steady — currently #1928 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1928 | 272 | ▲ up 5 · +8% births |
| 2022 | #1933 | 252 | ▲ up 5 · +14% births |
| 2021 | #1938 | 222 | ▲ up 2646 · +4340% births |
| 1930 | #4584 | 5 | ▼ down 529 · -29% births |
| 1925 | #4055 | 7 | ▲ up 952 · +40% births |
| 1920 | #5007 | 5 | — |
The story of Cyril
Cyril entered American naming records in 1913 and has been in use for over 111 years. A total of 11,912 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5007 in 1920 to #1928 in 2023. Cyril is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cyril in 1913:
Cyril by decade
Cyril peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 62 | |
| 1890s | 273 | |
| 1900s | 429 | |
| 1910s | 2,247 | |
| 1920s ★ | 2,702 | |
| 1930s | 1,433 | |
| 1940s | 1,051 | |
| 1950s | 844 | |
| 1960s | 612 | |
| 1970s | 471 | |
| 1980s | 453 | |
| 1990s | 419 | |
| 2000s | 447 | |
| 2010s | 430 | |
| 2020s | 39 | |
What are good nicknames for Cyril?
What names sound and feel like Cyril?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cyril also consider these
How is Cyril written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Cyril
What does the name Cyril mean?
Cyril means "Greek" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Cyril?
Cyril 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 Cyril?
Cyril originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Cyril?
Cyril is a two-syllable name pronounced S IH1 R AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cyril a common or rare name?
Cyril is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.