Russell
Russell is a boy name of French origin meaning “Little red one”, pronounced RUSS-ul. It ranked #345 in the United States in 2025, given to 944 babies, and peaked at #48 in 1904. Common nicknames: Russ, Rusty.
How popular is Russell in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Russell mean, and where does it come from?
Russell comes from the Old French nickname "Rousel" or "Roussel," a diminutive of "rous," meaning "red-haired" or "red-complexioned." Brought to England by the Normans, it became an aristocratic surname carried by the Dukes of Bedford. Russell transitioned to popular first-name use in the 19th and 20th centuries and has remained a steady, dependable choice ever since. Its warm meaning and easy familiarity have kept it in consistent use across the English-speaking world.
How is Russell used around the world?
Russell is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Russell?
Famous People Named Russell
- Russell Crowe — New Zealand-Australian actor
- Russell Brand — English comedian and actor
- Russell Wilson — American football quarterback
Similar Names to Russell
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Sibling Name Ideas for Russell
Looking for names that pair well with Russell? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Russell mean?
Russell is a boy name of French origin meaning "Little red one." Russell comes from the Old French nickname "Rousel" or "Roussel," a diminutive of "rous," meaning "red-haired" or "red-complexioned." Brought to England by the Normans, it became an aristocratic surname carried by the Dukes of Bedford.
How do you pronounce Russell?
Russell is pronounced RUSS-ul. Common variations include Russel, Rustin, Russ.
Is Russell a boy name?
Yes, Russell is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Russ, Rusty.