What does Opal mean and where does it come from?
The name Opal is derived from the Sanskrit word 'upala', which means 'precious stone'. It was first recorded as a given name in the late 19th century. The gemstone Opal is valued for its unique play of color and has historical associations with inspiration and creativity. The name is popular in Engl
Cultural significance
Opal has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #81 in 1911 — currently #486 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Opal?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Opal?
Opal works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Opal Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Opal Rose
Floral · soft ending
Opal Claire
French influence · crisp
Opal Jane
Literary · strong
Opal Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Opal right now?
Rising — up 39 spots — currently #486 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #486 | 629 | ▲ up 39 · +6% births |
| 2022 | #525 | 595 | ▲ up 20 · +6% births |
| 2021 | #545 | 561 | ▲ up 113 · +30% births |
| 2020 | #658 | 433 | ▲ up 451 · +86% births |
| 2015 | #1109 | 233 | ▲ up 1201 · +184% births |
| 2010 | #2310 | 82 | ▲ up 1198 · +95% births |
| 2005 | #3508 | 42 | ▲ up 382 · +31% births |
| 2000 | #3890 | 32 | ▲ up 962 · +60% births |
| 1995 | #4852 | 20 | ▼ down 1772 · -44% births |
| 1990 | #3080 | 36 | ▼ down 940 · -27% births |
| 1985 | #2140 | 49 | ▼ down 405 · -23% births |
| 1980 | #1735 | 64 | ▼ down 191 · -2% births |
| 1975 | #1544 | 65 | ▼ down 26 |
| 1970 | #1518 | 65 | ▼ down 383 · -25% births |
| 1965 | #1135 | 87 | — |
The story of Opal
Opal has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #81 in 1911. A total of 71,009 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #912 in 1880 to #486 in 2023. Opal is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Opal in 1911:
Opal by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 294 | |
| 1890s | 1,678 | |
| 1900s | 6,856 | |
| 1910s | 20,642 | |
| 1920s ★ | 21,797 | |
| 1930s | 8,648 | |
| 1940s | 3,804 | |
| 1950s | 1,710 | |
| 1960s | 897 | |
| 1970s | 704 | |
| 1980s | 526 | |
| 1990s | 304 | |
| 2000s | 559 | |
| 2010s | 2,157 | |
| 2020s | 433 | |
What are good nicknames for Opal?
What names sound and feel like Opal?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Opal also consider these
How is Opal written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Opal
What does the name Opal mean?
Opal means "English" — 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 Opal?
Opal is currently ranked #486 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Opal have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Opal?
Opal 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 Opal?
Opal is a two-syllable name pronounced OW1 P AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Opal trending right now?
Opal is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.