Rising since 1988, #4,758 for girls today.
Popularity of Ixchel since 1968
Babies named Ixchel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 12 |
| 1970s | 9 |
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 100 |
| 2000s | 368 |
| 2010s | 341 |
| 2020s | 207 |
Meaning & origin
Ixchel, a name of Maya origin, is deeply rooted in the mythology of the Yucatán Peninsula. The name translates to 'rainbow' or 'light,' and belongs to the powerful Maya goddess of the moon, medicine, and childbirth. In the United States, Ixchel first appeared on baby name records in 1968, and has since maintained a niche but devoted following. Its peak popularity came in 2007, when it ranked significantly higher than its current position. As of 2025, Ixchel ranks 4,758, with an incidence of 1 in 57,402 births. The name has been on a steady upward trajectory since 1988, suggesting a growing appreciation for indigenous names. Geographically, it appears most frequently in California, likely reflecting the state's large Hispanic and indigenous communities. For parents seeking a name with profound cultural significance and a melodic, distinctive sound, Ixchel offers a meaningful connection to Maya heritage.
Ixchel is a feminine name from Maya mythology, belonging to the goddess of the moon, medicine, and childbirth. The name is composed of the Maya elements 'ix' (feminine prefix) and 'chel' (meaning 'rainbow' or 'light'). It was borne by a pre-Columbian deity worshipped in the Yucatán region. The name has seen modern usage in the United States since the late 1960s, especially among families interested in indigenous culture.
Where Ixchel is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ix, Chel, Ixy
Variants: Ix Chel, Ix-Chel
Sibling names for Ixchel
Names that share Ixchel's style, for a brother or sister.
