What does Perl mean and where does it come from?
Perl is an English and Jewish name meaning 'pearl'. The name is historically associated with purity and beauty due to the precious gemstone 'pearl'. In Hebrew, it is often translated to 'Pnina' (פנינה). The name has Jewish cultural significance, often used in communities that value gemological symbo
Cultural significance
Perl has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pearl.
Peak popularity
Reached #4335 in 2016 — currently #1259 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Perl?
Perl works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Perl Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Perl Rose
Floral · soft ending
Perl Claire
French influence · crisp
Perl Jane
Literary · strong
Perl Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Perl right now?
Holding steady — currently #1259 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1259 | 941 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1264 | 921 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1269 | 891 | ▲ up 4552 · +4355% births |
| 2020 | #5821 | 20 | ▲ up 618 · +5% births |
| 2015 | #6439 | 19 | ▼ down 56 · -5% births |
| 2010 | #6383 | 20 | ▲ up 1524 · +43% births |
| 2005 | #7907 | 14 | ▲ up 3942 · +100% births |
| 2000 | #11849 | 7 | — |
The story of Perl
Perl entered American naming records in 1929 and has been in use for over 95 years. With 552 total births recorded, Perl remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11849 in 2000 to #1259 in 2023. Perl is used for both genders: 85% female and 15% male.
Names that peaked alongside Perl in 2016:
Perl by decade
Perl peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 10 | |
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 38 | |
| 1920s | 27 | |
| 1930s | 10 | |
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 11 | |
| 1980s | 23 | |
| 1990s | 50 | |
| 2000s | 140 | |
| 2010s ★ | 213 | |
| 2020s | 20 | |
💎Perl has only 552 total recorded births since 1929 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Perl?
What names sound and feel like Perl?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Perl also consider these
Common questions about the name Perl
What does the name Perl mean?
Perl means "pearl" — 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 Perl?
Perl 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 Perl?
Perl 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 does Perl sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Perl flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Perl ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Perl a common or rare name?
Perl is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.