Declining since 2010, #3,089 for boys today.
Popularity of Romel since 1953
Babies named Romel per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1991, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Romel's real moment was 2010.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 59 |
| 1960s | 88 |
| 1970s | 236 |
| 1980s | 369 |
| 1990s | 498 |
| 2000s | 522 |
| 2010s | 484 |
| 2020s | 230 |
Meaning & origin
Romel is a modern masculine name that emerged in the United States in the 1950s. Its first recorded appearance was in 1953, and it reached its peak popularity in 2010, when it ranked highest in usage. Since then, the name has been on a declining trajectory, with a current rank of 3089th in 2025. With a frequency of about 1 in 44,000 boys, it remains an uncommon choice. The name has seen its strongest usage in Florida, California, and Texas, reflecting a pattern common among many contemporary names. While its exact origins are unclear, Romel may be linked to the German surname Rommel or serve as a shortened form of Romello. Its straightforward sound and simple structure make it a distinctive option for parents seeking a name that is both modern and easy to pronounce.
Romel appears to be a modern coinage, likely influenced by surnames such as Rommel or as a variant of the name Romello. Its use in the United States is recorded from the mid-20th century, with a peak in popularity in the 2010s. The name does not have a well-documented historical or linguistic derivation.
Where Romel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rome
Sibling names for Romel
Names that share Romel's style, for a brother or sister.
