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Darrel

Boy name · 47 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Darrel: 47 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 7 births in 1993.

Darrel is most commonly a variant of Darrell, which traces back to the Old English *dēorling*, meaning ‘darling’ or ‘beloved’ – a term of endearment that evolved into a surname and then a first name. It can also derive from the Norman French *d'Airelle*, indicating a person from Airelle in France. Notable bearers include actor Darrell D’Silva, best known for his stage work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and NASCAR legend Darrell Waltrip. The name has no direct place connections, but shares its root with the English word ‘darling’. In Scotland, Darrel has been used as a masculine given name since the mid‑20th century, though the alternative spelling Darrell remains more common. It’s a warm, friendly choice with a literal meaning of affection.

Boy 14 of 52 years

Peak year
19937 babies
Latest (2005)
#5353 babies
Total births
47since 1976
5-year trend
▼ 16%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 1993 · 7
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).