Holding steady.
Popularity of Sonal since 1969
Babies named Sonal per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 8 |
| 1970s | 189 |
| 1980s | 192 |
| 1990s | 118 |
| 2000s | 68 |
| 2010s | 17 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Sonal is a feminine name of Sanskrit origin meaning 'golden'. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1969, reflecting the growing Indian diaspora. The name saw its peak popularity in 1977, when it ranked 984th in the U.S., and has since maintained a stable but low usage. While never widely common, Sonal has remained a recognizable choice for families of South Asian heritage, and its golden meaning gives it a timeless appeal.
Sonal derives from the Sanskrit word 'suvarna' meaning 'golden' or 'made of gold'. It is a common feminine name in India, particularly among Hindi and Marathi speakers. The name has been in use since the mid-20th century and is associated with brightness and beauty.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Sonu
Variants: Sonali, Sonalika
Sibling names for Sonal
Names that share Sonal's style, for a brother or sister.
