Russell

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Russell

Gender Boy
Origin French
Letters 7
Syllables 2
Pronunciation RUH-suhl

Russell, which has 7 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of French origin.

Meaning of Russell

Red head

The name Russell is of English origin and is derived from the Old French nickname "rous" or "russel", meaning "red-haired" or "little red one".

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Meaning Red head
Origin French
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #367 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Uncommon (Top 500)
Era Vintage (1900s)

Background & History of The Name Russell

Russell is an English given name that originated from a surname of Anglo-Norman origin. The name is derived from the Old French word "rosel," meaning "little red-haired one" or "red-haired man." It was originally a personal name given to individuals with red hair or a ruddy complexion. The surname Russell was first recorded in England during the 12th century and became established as a given name in the 19th century.

The name Russell gained popularity due to the influence of notable figures who bore the name. One such figure is Bertrand Russell, a renowned British philosopher, mathematician, and logician. Bertrand Russell is widely regarded as one of the founders of analytic philosophy and made significant contributions to various branches of philosophy and mathematics. His influential works and intellectual achievements brought attention to the name Russell and contributed to its rise in popularity as a given name.

In addition to Bertrand Russell, there have been other notable individuals with the name Russell across different fields. This includes actors like Kurt Russell, renowned for his roles in movies such as "Escape from New York" and "Big Trouble in Little China." Moreover, musicians like Leon Russell, who was a popular singer-songwriter and pianist, also added to the prominence of the name.

With its English roots and historically associated meanings, the name Russell continues to be utilized today. It is considered a classic and timeless name that is often chosen for boys. The rich history and notable individuals associated with the name Russell make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a traditional yet distinctive name for their child.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Russell over the years.

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