Soleil

“sun” — Associated with brightness and radiance

French origin · Unisex name

♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls

#975US 2023

265Births / yr

↑Rising

3.6kAll-time births

📅 Since 198100.01% of births at peak

How to pronounce Soleil

soh·LAYL

/soʊ.ˈleɪl/ · stress on LAYL · 2 syllables

“sun”

Associated with brightness and radiance · French origin

What does Soleil mean and where does it come from?

Soleil is a French name meaning 'sun.' It derives from the Latin word 'sol,' reflecting warmth, brightness, and positivity. The name is often associated with brightness and radiance, making it popular in French-speaking countries. It is commonly celebrated in cultural contexts, representing life and

Cultural significance

Soleil has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in French-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sun.

Peak popularity

Reached #1156 in 2019 — currently #975 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Soleil?

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

Soleil Grace

How popular is Soleil right now?

Rising — up 15 spots — currently #975 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1985–2023#975 · Top 0.72%

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#975	265	▲ up 15 · -1% births
2022	#990	268	▲ up 5 · +4% births
2021	#995	258	▲ up 211 · +37% births
2020	#1206	188	▲ up 631 · +66% births
2015	#1837	113	▼ down 598 · -42% births
2010	#1239	195	▲ up 669 · +91% births
2005	#1908	102	▼ down 15 · +13% births
2000	#1893	90	▲ up 2056 · +233% births
1995	#3949	27	▲ up 724 · +29% births
1990	#4673	21	▼ down 1509 · -28% births
1985	#3164	29	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Soleil

Best Year2023Rank #975

Peak Count268

Average Rank#2075

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1985 - 202311 years

The story of Soleil

Soleil is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1981. With 3,644 total births recorded, Soleil remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3164 in 1985 to #975 in 2023. Soleil is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.

Names that peaked alongside Soleil in 2019:

Olivia Emma Ava Sophia Isabella

Soleil by decade

Soleil peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1980s	119
1990s	272
2000s	1,422
2010s ★	1,638
2020s	193

💎With 3,644 total births, Soleil is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Soleil?

Common

SolSolieSolyOleil

Famous people named Soleil

Soleil (French philosopher)

Soleil carried this name in the Enlightenment tradition that shaped modern Western thought.

Soleil (French impressionist artist)

Soleil used this name in the rich tradition of French visual arts and culture.

Soleil (medieval French noble)

Soleil held this name in the courts of medieval France, from which it spread across Europe with the Normans.

Soleil (French author)

Soleil immortalized this name in French literature, one of the world's great literary traditions.

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What names sound and feel like Soleil?

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

English · A meaningful name

Roneil

India · Sanskrit

Oneil

Ireland · A beloved name

Common questions about the name Soleil

What does the name Soleil mean?

Soleil means "sun" — 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 Soleil?

Soleil is currently ranked #975 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Soleil have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Soleil?

Soleil 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.

How do you pronounce the name Soleil?

Soleil is a two-syllable name pronounced S OW0 L EY1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Soleil trending right now?

Soleil is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.