A 1910s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Nyal since 1916
Babies named Nyal per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 24 |
| 1920s | 26 |
| 1930s | 10 |
| 1940s | 28 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 19 |
| 2020s | 12 |
Meaning & origin
Nyal is a remarkably rare name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1916, its peak year. It has never achieved widespread use, remaining outside the top 1000 for decades. However, since 2022, the name has been on a rising trajectory. Nyal is likely a variant of the Irish name Niall or the English Neal, both of which have deeper historical roots. The rarity of Nyal makes it a distinctive choice, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with a familiar sound.
Nyal is a rare name that may be a variant of Niall, an Irish name derived from the Old Irish Níall, meaning 'champion' or 'cloud'. It could also be a modern respelling of Neal, which is of English origin from the Gaelic name. Usage has been minimal, with a slight revival in recent years.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Nyal
Names that share Nyal's style, for a brother or sister.
