Boy Name · Irish Origin
Nigel
Last reviewed: June 2026
Nigel is a boy baby name of Irish origin, meaning "Champion, dark". It currently sits in the Rare tier of US baby names for 2026, and parents who love Nigel often also consider Nicol.
Names like Nigel
Frequently asked about Nigel
What does the name Nigel mean?
Nigel means "Champion, dark" and is of Irish origin.
What is the origin of Nigel?
Nigel originates in Irish naming tradition.
How do you pronounce Nigel?
Nigel has 5 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable.
Is Nigel a boy's or girl's name?
Nigel is primarily used as a boy's name in US records.
How popular is Nigel in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Nigel sits in the Rare tier — an uncommon, standout choice.
What names are similar to Nigel?
Names that share Nigel's sound and style include Nicol, Nikhil, Nicola, Nicole, Nikola.