Girl · 335th of 9,107
Sybil
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
20,212
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1921
Peak Popularity Year
541
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Sybil stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Sybil has Greek origins, meaning 'prophetess' or 'oracle'. It evolved through Latin and Middle English forms. Sybil is often associated with wisdom and has been used in various literary contexts, contributing to its enduring appeal. The name does not have a biblical background but gained popularity during the Renaissance. Today, it is viewed as a classic name with a mystical aura, and notable figures bear it.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈsɪbəl/
Origin
Greek
Etymology
The name Sybil is derived from the Greek word 'sibyl', which refers to a female prophet or oracle. It was used in ancient times to denote women believed to possess divine powers of prophecy.
Meaning
prophetess, oracle
Language Evolution
Sibyl (Latin), Σίβυλλα (Sibylla in Ancient Greek), Sybil (Middle English)
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity during the Renaissance when interest in classical antiquity revived. It has been used in literature and theater, notably in works by Shakespeare and other playwrights.
Variants & Derivatives
Sibylle, Sybilla, Sibella, Sibley
Modern Popularity & Image
Sybil is perceived as a classic and somewhat mystical name, often associated with wisdom and foresight. It remains relatively uncommon but is appreciated for its historical and literary connections.
Famous People
Sybil Ludington, an American Revolutionary War heroine, Sybil Danning, an Austrian actress, Sybil Thorndike, an English actress
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Moderately Popular name with 541 peak births in 1921
Geographic Spread
Popular across 42 US states, with strongest presence in South Carolina
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 8 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 6 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 8 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 7545th of 7545 | 5 |
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 335th of 9107 | 6,765 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 387th of 9204 | 5,625 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 697th of 12526 | 3,675 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 1180th of 19264 | 1,592 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 3089th of 27321 | 539 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 7788th of 35406 | 228 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 1831st of 30306 | 1,352 |