What does Perle mean and where does it come from?
Perle is derived from the French word for 'pearl,' symbolizing something precious and valuable. The name has been used historically in French-speaking regions and has seen usage in English-speaking countries as well. Although not commonly found as a personal name today, it embodies a sense of elegan
Cultural significance
Perle has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in French-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pearl.
Peak popularity
Reached #1110 in 1902 — currently #597 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
French-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Perle?
Perle works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Perle Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Perle Rose
Floral · soft ending
Perle Mae
Sweet · timeless
Perle Claire
French influence · crisp
Perle Jane
Literary · strong
Perle Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Perle right now?
Holding steady — currently #597 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #597 | 1,603 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #602 | 1,583 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #607 | 1,553 | ▲ up 3197 · +25783% births |
| 1935 | #3804 | 6 | ▲ up 299 |
| 1930 | #4103 | 6 | ▼ down 724 · -33% births |
| 1920 | #3379 | 9 | ▲ up 114 · +29% births |
| 1915 | #3493 | 7 | ▼ down 1286 · +17% births |
| 1910 | #2207 | 6 | ▼ down 577 · -14% births |
| 1900 | #1630 | 7 | — |
The story of Perle
Perle has been a beloved American name for over 138 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1886. With 329 total births recorded, Perle remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1630 in 1900 to #597 in 2023. Perle is used for both genders: 74% female and 26% male.
Names that peaked alongside Perle in 1902:
Perle by decade
Perle peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 27 | |
| 1890s | 35 | |
| 1900s | 41 | |
| 1910s ★ | 125 | |
| 1920s | 84 | |
| 1930s | 12 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
💎Perle has only 329 total recorded births since 1886 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Perle?
Famous people named Perle
P(
Perle (French monarch)
Perle bore this name in the French royal court, spreading its aristocratic prestige across Europe.
P(
Perle (French author)
Perle immortalized this name in French literature, one of the world's great literary traditions.
P(
Perle (French monarch)
Perle bore this name in the French royal court, spreading its aristocratic prestige across Europe.
P(
Perle (French philosopher)
Perle carried this name in the Enlightenment tradition that shaped modern Western thought.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Perle?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Perle also consider these
How is Perle written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Perle
What does the name Perle mean?
Perle means "pearl" — a name rooted in French 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 Perle?
Perle is currently ranked #597 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 Perle?
Perle originates from French tradition. French names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Perle more of a girl or boy name?
Perle is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What are good nicknames for Perle?
Perle naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.