MallowbyNames

Derell

duh-REL · Possibly a variant of Darrell, derived from the Old English surname from 'deor' meaning 'dear', or a modern invented name blending elements such as Der- and -ell.

Peak popularity
1986
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 2022

Rising since 2022.

Popularity of Derell since 1945

Babies named Derell per year in U.S. Social Security records.

1123341960198020002020Most births 1986Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1940s5
1950s0
1960s54
1970s92
1980s225
1990s174
2000s106
2010s70
2020s5

Meaning & origin

Derell is a modern American name that first appeared in Social Security records in 1945. It peaked in popularity in 1986, though it never entered the top 1000 and remains uncommon. After declining in the 1990s and 2000s, the name has been rising in use since 2022, suggesting a small resurgence. Its etymology is uncertain but likely derives from the Old English 'deor' meaning 'dear', the same root as Darrell. The name has no recorded top states, indicating its usage is scattered across the country. While never a mainstream choice, Derell offers a unique, crisp sound that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar-sounding name.

Derell likely emerged in the mid-20th century as a variant of Darrell, which itself traces back to the Old English given name Dœrling, meaning 'darling' or 'dearly loved'. Alternatively, it may be a modern coinage combining the popular initial 'Der-' (as in Derek) with the fashionable suffix '-ell'. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1945 and saw its peak usage in 1986.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Der, D

Variants: Darrell, Derrell, Darell

Sibling names for Derell

Names that share Derell's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

D is for Derell, our favorite little boy.

D is for Derell…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Derell's letter becomes Derell's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Derell's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Derell mean?
Derell is likely a variant of Darrell, meaning 'dear' or 'beloved', or a modern invented name.
Is Derell a popular name?
Derell is rare; it has not ranked in the U.S. top 1000 in recent years. Its peak year was 1986.
Is Derell a boy's name?
Yes, Derell is almost exclusively used for boys.