What does Yul mean and where does it come from?
The name Yul is most commonly associated with Korean origins, where it is derived from the word 'yule', which signifies 'to flower' or 'to blossom.' In Russia, Yul can be connected to the winter season, embodying a different kind of 'blossoming' through the cold. Notably, Yul Brynner was a famous ac
Cultural significance
Yul has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Korea-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to flower; blossom.
Peak popularity
Reached #1431 in 1960 — currently #13865 in the US.
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Related Reading
Korea-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Yul?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Yul?
Yul works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Yul Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Yul John
One syllable · timeless choice
Yul Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Yul Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Yul Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Yul Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Yul right now?
Falling — down 1668 spots — currently #13865 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #13865 | 5 | ▼ down 1668 · -17% births |
| 2023 | #12197 | 6 | ▲ up 84 |
| 2022 | #12281 | 6 | ▼ down 3485 · -25% births |
| 2020 | #8796 | 8 | ▲ up 97 |
| 2015 | #8893 | 8 | ▲ up 992 · +14% births |
| 2010 | #9885 | 7 | ▲ up 1911 · +40% births |
| 2005 | #11796 | 5 | ▼ down 2602 |
| 1995 | #9194 | 5 | ▼ down 5498 · -58% births |
| 1985 | #3696 | 12 | ▲ up 2157 · +100% births |
| 1980 | #5853 | 6 | ▼ down 2661 · -50% births |
| 1975 | #3192 | 12 | ▼ down 1209 · -43% births |
| 1970 | #1983 | 21 | ▼ down 359 · -12% births |
| 1965 | #1624 | 24 | ▼ down 193 · -25% births |
| 1960 | #1431 | 32 | — |
The story of Yul
Yul entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. With 657 total births recorded, Yul remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1431 in 1960, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12197 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Yul in 1960:
Yul by decade
Yul peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 79 | |
| 1960s ★ | 219 | |
| 1970s | 116 | |
| 1980s | 61 | |
| 1990s | 54 | |
| 2000s | 55 | |
| 2010s | 65 | |
| 2020s | 13 | |
💎Yul has only 657 total recorded births since 1957 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Yul?
What names sound and feel like Yul?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Yul also consider these
Common questions about the name Yul
What does the name Yul mean?
Yul means "to flower; blossom" — a name rooted in Korea 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 Yul?
Yul is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Yul?
Yul originates from Korea tradition. Korea 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 Yul?
Yul is a one-syllable name pronounced YUHL. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Yul sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Yul flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Yul ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.