Pearl: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced PERL · 1 syllable
Pearl means “the gem; precious”, from English and Latin.
From pearl. * (river in China): From Chinese (Zhujiang, Zyu1 Gong1, “Pearl River”); calque of Chinese (zhu, zyu1, “pearl”). * (haven in Hawaii): From Hawaiian Wai Momi (“pearl water”); calque of Hawaiian momi (“pearl”).
- Meaning
- the gem; precious
- Origin
- English, Latin
- Pronunciation
- PERL
- US rank (2025)
- #776
- US babies a year
- about 393 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1890
- Style
- Vintage, Comeback, Nature
How popular is Pearl?
Pearl was the #776 name in the US in 2025, given to 350 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1890.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #776 |
| England & Wales | #271 |
| Scotland | #544 |
| Ireland | #276 |
| Canada | #746 |
| Australia | #239 |
How old are people named Pearl?
Half of US adults named Pearl are older than 68; most are between 21 and 92. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Pearl
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Pearl
What does the name Pearl mean?
Pearl means “the gem; precious”. It comes from English and Latin.
How do you pronounce Pearl?
Pearl is pronounced PERL.
How popular is the name Pearl?
Pearl was the #776 name in the US in 2025, given to 350 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1890.
How old are people named Pearl?
Half of US adults named Pearl are older than 68. Most are between 21 and 92.