Nigel
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Nigel
Nigel, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Nigel
From the name nathaniel
Nigel is a masculine given name of English origin. It is a diminutive form of the name "Nigel," which is derived from the Latin word "Nigellus," meaning "champion." It can also be interpreted to mean "dark-haired" or "black-haired" as well.
| Meaning | From the name nathaniel |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #935 in 2010 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | 90s name |
Background & History of The Name Nigel
The name Nigel is of English origin and is derived from the Latin name Nigellus, meaning "black" or "dark-haired". It gained popularity in England during the Middle Ages and enjoyed continued usage throughout the country. Nigel is commonly considered a masculine given name, although it can also be found as a surname. The name reached its peak popularity in the 1960s and gradually declined in use over the following decades.
Nigel has been associated with various notable individuals throughout history. One of the most notable figures is Nigel Farage, a British politician who co-founded the UK Independence Party (UKIP) and later served as its leader. Farage played a significant role in advocating for the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union, commonly known as Brexit.
In the world of literature, there have been characters named Nigel that have left their mark. Nigel Hawthorne, a British actor, gained international recognition for his portrayal of King George III in the film adaptation of the play "The Madness of King George". His talent earned him critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination.
Nigel is a name that has been widely used in popular culture, appearing in various films, TV shows, and books. One well-known fictional Nigel is Nigel Thornberry, a character from the animated series "The Wild Thornberrys". Nigel plays the role of the father and wildlife documentarian in this adventure-filled show.
Despite its decline in popularity in recent years, Nigel remains a classic English name with a rich history and cultural significance. It continues to hold a place in many hearts and minds as a name that embodies strength, intelligence, and timeless elegance.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Nigel over the years.
Check Initials
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Nigel.
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