Holding steady.
Popularity of Wadell since 1915
Babies named Wadell per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 20 |
| 1920s | 45 |
| 1930s | 48 |
| 1940s | 46 |
| 1950s | 81 |
| 1960s | 46 |
| 1970s | 20 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 5 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Wadell is a rare given name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1915. It reached its peak usage in 1932, but has never been common. The name has remained steady in its rare occurrence, without significant spikes or declines. Among the top states where it has been recorded, none stand out as especially popular. Wadell is most often seen as a variant of the surname Waddell, which may have English geographical origins. Despite its obscurity, Wadell carries a classic, surname-as-first-name feel that might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive but historically rooted choice.
Wadell is likely an English surname of uncertain derivation, possibly a variant of Waddell, which itself may come from a place name meaning 'valley of the ford' or from the Old English personal name 'Wada'. As a given name, it has been used sparingly in the United States, most often as a middle or family surname.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Waddell
Sibling names for Wadell
Names that share Wadell's style, for a brother or sister.
