MallowbyNames

Kapil

kuh-PEEL · of uncertain origin; possibly derived from Sanskrit 'kapila' meaning 'tawny, brownish'.

Peak popularity
1984
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Kapil since 1980

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

369198020002020Most births 1984Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1980s42
1990s37
2000s45
2010s10
2020s0

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.

Sisters: Ananya, Priya, Riya, Neha, Sita

Brothers: Arjun, Ravi, Vikram, Mohan, Gopal

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

K is for Kapil, our favorite little boy.

K is for Kapil…”

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

Make Kapil's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does Kapil mean?
The meaning of Kapil is uncertain. It is often linked to the Sanskrit 'kapila', meaning 'tawny' or 'brownish', but other interpretations exist.
How popular is Kapil?
Kapil has never ranked among the top 1,000 names in U.S. Social Security data. Its peak year in records was 1984, and it has remained a rare choice.
Is Kapil a boy's name or a girl's name?
Kapil is traditionally a boy's name.