Nell

What does the baby name Nell mean? Learn about what Nell means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Nell - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Nell
N-E-L-L, is a 4-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Nell
NEL
Meaning of Nell
Shining light, light, mercy, compassion.
Origin of Nell
The name 'Nell' is of English origin. It is derived from the longer name 'Eleanor', which itself comes from the Old French name 'Alienor'. 'Alienor' was a variant of the Provençal name 'Aliénor', which was a form of the Greek name 'Helenē'. The name 'Helenē' means 'light' or 'bright'.
American Names
English Names
Greek Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Nell
Alenor
Aline
Annora
Eileen
Elaine
Eleanor
Eleanora
Elenore
Elinor
Ella
Ellen
Enora
Helen
Helena
Helene
Lenore
Leonora
Lina
Nellie
Nona
Nora
Noreen
Norene
Norina
Norine
Popularity of Nell
The popularity of the name 'Nell' has varied over time. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, 'Nell' was a relatively common name for girls in English-speaking countries. It was often used as a nickname for longer names such as 'Eleanor' or 'Helen'. However, in recent decades, the name 'Nell' has become less common and is now considered more unique and uncommon.
Nell currently has 373 likes, and is in the top 3% of liked girl's names. The name Alina is slightly more popular than Nell.

Etymology of Nell

As mentioned earlier, the name 'Nell' is derived from the Greek name 'Helenē', which means 'light' or 'bright'. This etymology reflects the positive and radiant qualities associated with the name 'Nell'.

Cultural Significance of Nell

The name 'Nell' does not hold significant cultural or historical significance in any particular culture. However, it is a name that has been used in English-speaking countries for many years, and it carries a sense of tradition and familiarity.