Darnell vs Nigel

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Darnell

Boy #2,331 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"hidden nook, secret alcove"

Origin: Old French

English African American

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Boy #2,190 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"champion (from Old Irish Niall)"

Origin: Old Irish via Norman Latin

English British Australian Irish

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Darnell Rank #2,331

Nigel Rank #2,190

Nigel is more popular, ranked #2190 vs #2331 for Darnell.

Is Darnell or Nigel more popular?

Nigel is more popular, ranked #2190 compared to Darnell at #2331 in the United States.

What do Darnell and Nigel mean?

Darnell means "hidden nook, secret alcove" (Old French origin). Nigel means "champion (from Old Irish Niall)" (Old Irish via Norman Latin origin).

Are Darnell and Nigel boy or girl names?

Darnell is primarily a boy name. Nigel is primarily a boy name.