Find out how popular the first name Neil has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Neil by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Neil is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 100% of people named Neil being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 302 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Neil.

The history of the first name Neil

The name Neil has its origins in the Gaelic language, derived from the Irish word "Niall" or "Nial," which means "champion" or "cloud." It traces its roots back to ancient Celtic cultures and is believed to have first emerged in Ireland and Scotland.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in ancient Irish texts and legends, where it was borne by several Irish kings and warriors. The name gained prominence with the legendary High King of Ireland, Niall Noígiallach, who ruled in the 5th century AD and is renowned for his military conquests and the establishment of the Uí Néill dynasty.

The name Neil has a rich history in the British Isles and has been associated with several notable figures throughout the centuries. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name is Niall of the Nine Hostages (c. 379-405 AD), an Irish king known for his military campaigns and the expansion of his territory across Ireland and parts of Britain.

Another prominent figure bearing the name was Neil Gow (1727-1807), a Scottish violinist and composer who played a significant role in preserving and promoting traditional Scottish music. His compositions and arrangements have left a lasting legacy in the realm of Scottish folk music.

In the realm of literature, Neil Gunn (1891-1973) was a celebrated Scottish novelist and playwright known for his works that explored themes of Scottish identity and the relationship between humans and nature. His novel "The Serpent" is considered a classic of Scottish literature.

The name Neil has also been associated with scientific and technological advancements. Neil Armstrong (1930-2012) was an American astronaut and aeronautical engineer who became the first person to walk on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, uttering the iconic phrase, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind."

In the world of music, Neil Young (born 1945) is a renowned Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist, known for his influential work across various genres, including folk, rock, and country. He has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over five decades and continues to inspire generations of musicians.

While the name Neil has its roots in ancient Celtic cultures, it has transcended its origins and has been embraced across various regions and cultures, carrying with it a rich history and a legacy of notable individuals who have left an indelible mark on their respective fields.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Neil was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Neil, please contact us.

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