A 1910s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Russell since 1880
Babies named Russell per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1960, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Russell's real moment was 1914.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 1,023 |
| 1890s | 2,780 |
| 1900s | 4,552 |
| 1910s | 24,842 |
| 1920s | 37,208 |
| 1930s | 28,840 |
| 1940s | 41,336 |
| 1950s | 62,406 |
| 1960s | 60,447 |
| 1970s | 35,469 |
| 1980s | 26,651 |
| 1990s | 13,740 |
| 2000s | 7,792 |
| 2010s | 7,409 |
| 2020s | 5,285 |
Meaning & origin
Russell is a name of enduring appeal, rooted in descriptive Norman French origins. As of 2025, it holds the 345th spot on the U.S. popularity charts, given to approximately 1 in 1,809 baby boys. While not currently at its historical peak, the name has shown a notable resurgence since 2008, rising steadily after a period of decline. Its peak usage occurred in 1914, when it was a top choice during a decade that favored strong, surname-style names. Today, the name is especially popular in states like Alaska, Idaho, and Montana, where it often appears among the top names. This regional strength contributes to its overall trajectory, which has been rising for nearly two decades, suggesting a quiet but steady return to favor. The name's solid, friendly sound, combined with its long history, gives it a dependable character that many parents find appealing.
Russell originated as a Norman French surname derived from the Old French 'rous' meaning red, referring to a person with red hair or a ruddy complexion. It was introduced to Britain after the Norman Conquest of 1066, where it became established as a noble family name, most notably the Dukes of Bedford. As a given name, Russell gained usage in the English-speaking world from the 19th century onward, following the common practice of adopting surnames as first names.
Where Russell is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Russ, Rusty
Sibling names for Russell
Names that share Russell's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Audrey, Claire, Elaine, Marilyn, Diana, Marion, Ardith, Caryl, Charleen, Maranda, Marilee, Roslyn, Carlena, Laurice, Renea, Rochell, Tennille, Arnette, Ginelle, Jannell, Jewelene, Joyelle, Lauree, Lorelle, Marilynne, Maybelline, Merilee, Meryle, Suella, Wendelyn, Avanell, Elinda, Gladyce, Glora, Jerrine, Jodelle, Lynnelle, Marlise, Merinda, Pleshette, Raenell, Anelle, Marnette, Runell, Arnelle, Belenda, Belvie, Challis, Dorinne, Emmogene, Forrestine, Franchelle, Ladelle, Lanise, Lavine, Marjoria, Marveline, Murline, Noralyn, Runette, Sydna, Tressia, Vandella
Brothers: Warren, Calvin, Lawrence, Leonard, Clifford, Alan, Grover, Cornell, Ellsworth, Jarvis, Lowell, Sanford, Talmadge, Thurman, Wendell, Cardell, Carleton, Carlyle, Curtiss, Darcel, Denton, Durell, Haskell, Kennard, Martell, Merwin, Rodman, Wendall, Burgess, Darcell, Hassel, Lindbergh, Rande, Rendell, Ronel, Sandford, Sewell, Standley, Tramell, Woodroe, Crandall, Darroll, Delmore, Farron, Glenard, Kennet, Kennett, Lyndel, Marnell, Merrel, Tedric, Wendal, Ervine, Fairley, Hurshell, Landrum, Orvell, Rachard, Ransome, Upton
Names like Russell
Names whose popularity has moved with Russell's over the last 50 years.
