Russel

“Red-haired”

English origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#825US 2023

1.4kBirths / yr

→Stable

16.5kAll-time births

📅 Since 192000

How to pronounce Russel

rus-əl

/rus-əl/ · · 2 syllables

“Red-haired”

English origin · Unisex name

What does Russel mean and where does it come from?

Russel, although traditionally a male name, has been adopted as a female name in recent years. The name has French origins where it was used to denote someone with red hair, or more broadly, a reddish complexion. The unisex trend has made Russel a unique choice among parents seeking gender-neutral n

Cultural significance

Russel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of red-haired.

Peak popularity

Reached #4025 in 1924 — currently #825 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Russel?

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

Russel Grace

How popular is Russel right now?

Holding steady — currently #825 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1920–2023#825 · Top 0.61%

1920

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#825	1,375	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#830	1,355	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#835	1,325	▲ up 4170 · +26400% births
1920	#5005	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Russel

Best Year2023Rank #825

Peak Count1,375

Average Rank#1874

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1920 - 20234 years

The story of Russel

Russel entered American naming records in 1920 and has been in use for over 104 years. A total of 16,508 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5005 in 1920 to #825 in 2023. Russel is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Russel in 1924:

Mary Dorothy Helen Betty Margaret

Russel by decade

Russel peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	73
1890s	222
1900s	352
1910s	2,181
1920s ★	3,300
1930s	1,835
1940s	1,741
1950s	1,801
1960s	1,728
1970s	1,168
1980s	914
1990s	550
2000s	355
2010s	260
2020s	28

What are good nicknames for Russel?

ENGLISH

Russ

What names sound and feel like Russel?

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

Rusbel

Spain · from the little

Russell

American · French

Rufael

English · A meaningful name

Ransel

English · Variation of Randolph,

Dessel

English · English

Rusell

American · red-haired; reddish

Ursel

Germanic · German

Ruthel

American · brave counsel

How is Russel written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Russel

What does the name Russel mean?

Russel means "Red-haired" — 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 Russel?

Russel is currently ranked #825 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 Russel?

Russel 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.

Is Russel a common or rare name?

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

Is Russel more of a girl or boy name?

Russel is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.