What does Sybil mean and where does it come from?
Sybil has ancient roots, originally derived from the Greek word 'sibylla', referring to prophetesses in ancient mythologies. Over centuries, the name has been used in various cultures, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name was notably used in literature, particularly in the 19th centu
Cultural significance
Sybil has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #282 in 1919 — currently #588 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Sybil?
Sybil works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sybil Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Sybil Rose
Floral · soft ending
Sybil Mae
Sweet · timeless
Sybil Claire
French influence · crisp
Sybil Jane
Literary · strong
Sybil Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Sybil right now?
Holding steady — currently #588 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #588 | 1,612 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #593 | 1,592 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #598 | 1,562 | ▲ up 1284 · +1447% births |
| 2020 | #1882 | 101 | ▲ up 228 · +11% births |
| 2015 | #2110 | 91 | ▲ up 7126 · +658% births |
| 2010 | #9236 | 12 | ▼ down 3234 · -40% births |
| 2005 | #6002 | 20 | ▲ up 499 · +25% births |
| 2000 | #6501 | 16 | ▼ down 1644 · -20% births |
| 1995 | #4857 | 20 | ▼ down 1556 · -39% births |
| 1990 | #3301 | 33 | ▼ down 434 · +3% births |
| 1985 | #2867 | 32 | ▼ down 1516 · -66% births |
| 1980 | #1351 | 93 | ▼ down 337 · -22% births |
| 1975 | #1014 | 119 | ▲ up 357 · +57% births |
| 1970 | #1371 | 76 | ▼ down 572 · -50% births |
| 1965 | #799 | 153 | — |
The story of Sybil
Sybil has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. A total of 19,648 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #736 in 1885 to #588 in 2023. Sybil is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Sybil in 1919:
Sybil by decade
Sybil peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 87 | |
| 1890s | 280 | |
| 1900s | 640 | |
| 1910s | 2,509 | |
| 1920s ★ | 4,442 | |
| 1930s | 3,118 | |
| 1940s | 2,709 | |
| 1950s | 1,887 | |
| 1960s | 1,396 | |
| 1970s | 931 | |
| 1980s | 471 | |
| 1990s | 198 | |
| 2000s | 150 | |
| 2010s | 729 | |
| 2020s | 101 | |
What are good nicknames for Sybil?
Famous people named Sybil
S(
Sybil (Greek mythological figure)
Sybil carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
S(
Sybil (Greek poet or artist)
Sybil helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
S(
Sybil (modern Greek athlete)
Sybil brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
S(
Sybil (ancient philosopher)
Sybil bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Sybil?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sybil also consider these
How is Sybil written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Sybil
What does the name Sybil mean?
Sybil means "Greek" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Sybil?
Sybil is currently ranked #588 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 Sybil?
Sybil originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Sybil?
Sybil is a two-syllable name pronounced S IH1 B IH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Sybil more of a girl or boy name?
Sybil is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.