What does Errol mean and where does it come from?
The name Errol has Scottish origins and is derived from a surname tied to a place in Scotland. It gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly due to notable figures like Errol Flynn, a famous actor known for his swashbuckling roles in classic Hollywood films.
Cultural significance
Errol has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scottish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of scottish.
Peak popularity
Reached #354 in 1941 — currently #6018 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scottish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Errol?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Errol?
Errol works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Errol Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Errol Rose
Floral · soft ending
Errol Mae
Sweet · timeless
Errol Claire
French influence · crisp
Errol Jane
Literary · strong
Errol Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Errol right now?
Rising fast — up 3216 spots — currently #6018 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #6018 | 15 | ▲ up 3216 · +88% births |
| 2022 | #9234 | 8 | ▼ down 3616 · -50% births |
| 2021 | #5618 | 16 | ▼ down 937 · -20% births |
| 2020 | #4681 | 20 | ▼ down 904 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #3777 | 28 | ▼ down 471 · -15% births |
| 2010 | #3306 | 33 | ▼ down 554 · -15% births |
| 2005 | #2752 | 39 | ▼ down 701 · -20% births |
| 2000 | #2051 | 49 | ▼ down 670 · -33% births |
| 1995 | #1381 | 73 | ▼ down 199 · -14% births |
| 1990 | #1182 | 85 | ▼ down 323 · -23% births |
| 1985 | #859 | 110 | ▼ down 37 · -4% births |
| 1980 | #822 | 114 | ▲ up 37 · +21% births |
| 1975 | #859 | 94 | ▼ down 156 · -33% births |
| 1970 | #703 | 140 | ▼ down 39 · +12% births |
| 1965 | #664 | 125 | — |
The story of Errol
Errol has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. With 8,559 total births recorded, Errol remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2517 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #6018 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Errol in 1941:
Errol by decade
Errol peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 11 | |
| 1910s | 109 | |
| 1920s | 196 | |
| 1930s | 691 | |
| 1940s ★ | 1,797 | |
| 1950s | 1,196 | |
| 1960s | 1,293 | |
| 1970s | 1,064 | |
| 1980s | 901 | |
| 1990s | 648 | |
| 2000s | 358 | |
| 2010s | 275 | |
| 2020s | 20 | |
💎With 8,559 total births, Errol is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Errol?
What names sound and feel like Errol?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Errol also consider these
Common questions about the name Errol
What does the name Errol mean?
Errol means "Scottish" — a name rooted in Scottish 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 Errol?
Errol is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Errol?
Errol originates from Scottish tradition. Scottish 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 Errol?
Errol is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 R AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Errol a common or rare name?
Errol is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.