Neel
Neel first appears in US records in 0. It peaked in 2009, when 148 boys were given the name.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Neel popular?
Steady Neel has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 2009.
| 2020s | 542 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 964 | |
| 2000s | 947 | |
| 1990s | 456 | |
| 1980s | 289 | |
| 1970s | 119 | |
| 1960s | 22 | |
| 1950s | 14 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1930s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 16 | |
| 1910s | 13 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Neel mean?
From the Sanskrit नील (nīla), 'dark blue, indigo, sapphire'. A genuine classical colour word, also the root of 'neelam' (sapphire). Note: the similar-looking English/Irish name Neil (from Gaelic Niall) is a separate, unrelated name.
Names like Neel
sanskrit names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Neel
Popular sanskrit names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Neel
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Neel mean?
Neel means Dark blue, sapphire. From the Sanskrit नील (nīla), 'dark blue, indigo, sapphire'. A genuine classical colour word, also the root of 'neelam' (sapphire). Note: the similar-looking English/Irish name Neil (from Gaelic Niall) is a separate, unrelated name.
What is the origin of the name Neel?
Neel is of sanskrit origin.
How do you pronounce Neel?
Neel is pronounced “NEEL.”
Is Neel a boy or a girl name?
Neel is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Neel a popular name right now?
Neel has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 2009.
How popular is the name Neel?
In 2025, Neel ranked #1581 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Neel most popular?
Neel was most popular in 2009, when about 148 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Neel?
Names similar to Neel include Ishan, Advik, Dev, Om, Ansh.
What names go well with Neel?
sanskrit names that pair well with Neel include Tara, Trisha, Kali, Bodhi, Anaya.