Darnell

“Hidden Nook”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 92% boys♀ 8% girls

#866US 2023

1.3kBirths / yr

→Stable

30.6kAll-time births

📅 Since 191700

How to pronounce Darnell

dah·RNEL

/dɑ.ˈrnɛl/ · stress on RNEL · 2 syllables

“Hidden Nook”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Darnell mean and where does it come from?

Darnell is predominantly recognized as a male name, but in recent years has been adopted more frequently for females. Originating from Middle English, it refers to a type of grass (Darnel) that grows in shady areas. The name evokes a sense of nature and tranquility, with its meanings suggesting a hi

Cultural significance

Darnell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hidden nook.

Peak popularity

Reached #1078 in 1948 — currently #866 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Darnell?

Darnell works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Darnell Grace

How popular is Darnell right now?

Holding steady — currently #866 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1920–2023#866 · Top 0.64%

1935

1940

1945

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#866	1,334	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#871	1,314	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#876	1,284	▲ up 7084 · +12740% births
1990	#7960	10	▼ down 3467 · -41% births
1985	#4493	17	▼ down 743 · -19% births
1980	#3750	21	▼ down 1378 · -38% births
1975	#2372	34	▼ down 713 · -39% births
1970	#1659	56	▼ down 314 · -16% births
1965	#1345	67	▲ up 167 · +24% births
1960	#1512	54	▼ down 57 · +10% births
1955	#1455	49	▼ down 348 · -30% births
1950	#1107	70	▲ up 98 · +59% births
1945	#1205	44	▲ up 573 · +110% births
1940	#1778	21	▲ up 903 · +91% births
1935	#2681	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Darnell

Best Year2023Rank #866

Peak Count1,334

Average Rank#2399

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1920 - 202317 years

The story of Darnell

Darnell entered American naming records in 1917 and has been in use for over 107 years. A total of 30,611 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3790 in 1920 to #866 in 2023. Darnell is used for both genders: 8% female and 92% male.

Names that peaked alongside Darnell in 1948:

Linda Mary Barbara Patricia Susan

Darnell by decade

Darnell peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	78
1920s	267
1930s	372
1940s	1,050
1950s	3,557
1960s	4,290
1970s	5,175
1980s ★	6,497
1990s	4,573
2000s	2,877
2010s	1,776
2020s	99

What are good nicknames for Darnell?

Common

DarDaArnell

What names sound and feel like Darnell?

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

Darcell

American · Little darling

Darzell

American · A beloved name

Darrell

American · From Airelle, a

Danell

American · A variant of

Larnell

American · English

Varnell

American · From the fern

Common questions about the name Darnell

What does the name Darnell mean?

Darnell means "Hidden Nook" — a name rooted in American 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 Darnell?

Darnell is currently ranked #866 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 Darnell?

Darnell originates from American tradition. American 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 Darnell?

Darnell is a two-syllable name pronounced D AA0 R N EH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Darnell a common or rare name?

Darnell is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.