The name Russell is a boy's name of French origin meaning "redhead, fox-colored". Russell is ranked #413 on our popularity charts and is often added to lists like Boy Baby Names Moving Up Fast and discussed in our forums with posts like "A brother or sister for little Jack or Olivia".
From the experts:
One of many R- boys’ names that started as a nickname for a redhead, Russell had a measure of popularity from the early twentieth century through the 1950s. But it's now lost much of its color -- except for two particularly dynamic bearers, Russell Crowe and Russell Brand.
Russell has been much more common as a surname, whose many namesakes have included philosopher Bertrand, Gay Nineties entertainer Lillian, actresses Rosalind, Jane and Keri, actor Kurt, basketball star Bill and singer Leon.
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16 names similar to Russell
These 16 names were selected by our users that were looking for other names like Russell. If you didn't find an alternative name that you like better than Russell, try our name generator. It allows you to go beyond the similarities of a name, which can provide a lot of inspiration!
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Comments
thorn144 Says:
Dawn Croone Says:
I named my oldest Russell. I hate the nick name "Rusty". He goes by Russ or Russell. Of course, he can choose if he likes Rusty.
RoddyThlayli Says:
Me too!
headintheclouds Says:
I think of the little boy from Up, or a Jack Russell terrier when I hear Russell :) In my opinion, it's one of those names that is heard more on the generation before today's, but still used often enough that it's presently more of a modern classic. It fits nicely into the sweet spot of being well-known, not an "out-there" name, but your kid won't have three others in his class.
ThistleThorn Says:
I love the nickname Rusty.
Haids1987 Says:
I live in a Seattle suburb and this name is becoming quite hot thanks to our star quarterback. Go Hawks!
lesliemarion Says:
I love this name, our son's third name. It sounds like the rustle of the wind and has a cute retro nickname, Rusty.
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Question for berries: there's already Russ as a nickname for Russell. Would it be too much of a stretch to do Reese as a nickname? Love the name Reese and Russell and wondering if there's a way to squeeze in both.