Holding steady.
Popularity of Kapil since 1980
Babies named Kapil per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 42 |
| 1990s | 37 |
| 2000s | 45 |
| 2010s | 10 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Kapil is a Sanskrit-derived name with deep roots in Indian philosophy and mythology, though its exact meaning remains uncertain. In the United States, the name has never entered the top 1,000 rankings, according to Social Security data, and its peak year of recorded usage was 1984. The name has maintained a stable trajectory over the decades, never experiencing a dramatic surge or decline. While precise popularity data is limited due to its rarity, Kapil reflects a connection to ancient Hindu traditions, particularly the sage Kapila, and remains a distinctive choice for families seeking a name with cultural and historical resonance.
Kapil is of debated origin. It may derive from the Sanskrit word 'kapila' (कपिल), meaning 'tawny' or 'brownish', a term used in ancient Hindu texts to describe a reddish-brown color. The name is also traditionally associated with the sage Kapila, a prominent figure in Hindu philosophy and the founder of the Samkhya school. In modern times, the name has been used in India and among the diaspora, though its exact historical derivation remains uncertain.
Sibling names for Kapil
Names that share Kapil's style, for a brother or sister.

