Holding steady.
Popularity of Ardel since 1917
Babies named Ardel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 18 | 5 |
| 1920s | 20 | 5 |
| 1930s | 14 | 11 |
| 1940s | 18 | 5 |
| 1950s | 17 | 5 |
| 1960s | 10 | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Ardel is a rare unisex name that first appeared in United States records in 1917. Its peak year was 1937, when it saw its highest usage, but it has never ranked among the top 1,000 names. The name has remained stable in its rarity, with no significant resurgence in recent decades. Its origins are unclear, but it is thought to be a modern invention, possibly influenced by the popularity of similar-sounding names like Arlene or Ardelle. Despite its obscurity, Ardel carries a vintage charm reminiscent of early 20th-century naming trends.
Ardel first appeared in the early 20th century, likely as a modern coinage formed from fashionable elements such as 'Ar-' (from names like Arthur or Arnold) and the popular '-el' suffix seen in names like Daniel or Muriel. Its usage peaked in the 1930s, with occasional use for both genders, but it never ranked among the top names. The name remains rare today.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ard, Delly
Sibling names for Ardel
Names that share Ardel's style, for a brother or sister.
