Rising since 1996, #3,211 for girls today.
Popularity of Quetzalli since 1996
Babies named Quetzalli per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2010, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Quetzalli's real moment was 2025.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 20 |
| 2000s | 246 |
| 2010s | 353 |
| 2020s | 241 |
Meaning & origin
Quetzalli is a Nahuatl name that first appeared on the U.S. Social Security Administration's list of registered names in 1996. Since then, it has been on a steady upward trajectory, reaching its peak rank of 3211 in 2025. The name remains relatively rare, with about 1 in 32801 newborns receiving it. Its popularity is concentrated in states with large Hispanic populations, such as California and Texas. The name evokes the vivid imagery of the quetzal bird's feathers, which were treasured in Aztec society, and carries a sense of cultural pride and heritage. Quetzalli's rise in the late 20th century coincides with a broader revival of indigenous names among Latino families.
Quetzalli comes from the Nahuatl language, derived from 'quetzalli' meaning 'precious feather' or 'beautiful feather', referring to the iridescent tail feathers of the quetzal bird, which were highly valued in Aztec culture. The quetzal bird itself is named after the Nahuatl word 'quetzal', meaning 'large brilliant tail feather'. The name was historically used as a given name among Nahuatl-speaking peoples and has been revived in modern times, particularly in Mexico and among Mexican-American families.
Where Quetzalli is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Quetzi, Quetz
Variants: Quetzal
Sibling names for Quetzalli
Names that share Quetzalli's style, for a brother or sister.
