Declining since 1985, #5,399 for boys today.
Popularity of Errol since 1896
Babies named Errol per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 11 |
| 1900s | 0 |
| 1910s | 109 |
| 1920s | 196 |
| 1930s | 691 |
| 1940s | 1,797 |
| 1950s | 1,197 |
| 1960s | 1,293 |
| 1970s | 1,064 |
| 1980s | 901 |
| 1990s | 648 |
| 2000s | 358 |
| 2010s | 275 |
| 2020s | 91 |
Meaning & origin
Errol is a name of Old English origin, historically rooted in the elements eor ("boar") and wulf ("wolf"), but also linked to the title Earl. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1896, and its peak popularity came in 1941 when it ranked notably higher. Since then, Errol has been in decline, with a trajectory that shows a steady fall beginning around 1985. In 2025, it ranked 5,399, with approximately 1 in 100,475 boys receiving the name. The name carries a vintage charm and is often associated with the dashing actor Errol Flynn, yet it has never been regionally concentrated in any top states. Its variant forms like Erol and Erroll offer slight spelling alternatives. Despite its low modern usage, Errol remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an old-fashioned, robust name with a touch of Hollywood history.
Errol is derived from the Old English elements eor ("boar") and wulf ("wolf"), forming the name Eorwulf. It may also be a variant of Earl, from the title meaning "nobleman." The name gained moderate popularity in the mid-20th century, partly influenced by actor Errol Flynn.
Where Errol 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: E, Rolly
Sibling names for Errol
Names that share Errol's style, for a brother or sister.
