A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Burl since 1880
Babies named Burl per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1921, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Burl's real moment was 1891.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 152 |
| 1890s | 135 |
| 1900s | 180 |
| 1910s | 989 |
| 1920s | 1,656 |
| 1930s | 1,292 |
| 1940s | 994 |
| 1950s | 832 |
| 1960s | 452 |
| 1970s | 265 |
| 1980s | 144 |
| 1990s | 42 |
| 2000s | 18 |
| 2010s | 18 |
| 2020s | 12 |
Meaning & origin
Burl is a name of uncertain origin, possibly derived from an Old English word meaning 'cupbearer' or from a place name. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1880 and reached its peak popularity in 1891. After decades of decline, it has seen a slight resurgence since 2020, though it remains rare and is not currently in the top 1000. Its revival may appeal to those seeking a vintage, short, and distinctive name.
Burl is a name of uncertain derivation. It may have originated as an English surname from the Old English word 'byrele', meaning 'cupbearer', or from various place names. It saw modest use as a given name in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United States, and experienced a small revival in the 2020s.
Where Burl is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Burl
Names that share Burl's style, for a brother or sister.
