Arial
Below 5 births
2025 SSA
About Arial
Arial is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Hebrew 'Ariel' meaning 'lion of God', though the spelling variation without the 'e' gives it a distinctive quality. Some associate it with the air spirit character in Shakespeare's 'The Tempest', suggesting ethereal qualities. In modern contexts, the name gained recognition through the popular computer font Arial, though this association is coincidental rather than etymological. As a male name, Arial offers a rare balance of strength and delicacy. While more commonly seen as feminine in some cultures, its Hebrew origins support its traditional use for boys. The name carries associations with creativity, spirituality, and literary connections, appealing to parents seeking something unusual yet historically grounded.
Arial for girls#11040 US
Arial is a feminine name with multiple origins and meanings, sometimes confused with the font or the Disney character Ariel. The name may derive from Hebrew, meaning 'lion of God,' sharing roots with the male name Ariel. It can also be connected to 'aerial,' suggesting something ethereal or heavenly. This name gained modest popularity in the 1990s, likely influenced by the character from 'The Little Mermaid,' though with this alternative spelling. Arial offers parents a slightly unique variation on the more common Ariel while maintaining its magical, otherworldly associations. The name has a delicate, modern feel despite its ancient origins, appealing to those seeking a name that balances uniqueness with recognizability and carries spiritual or fantastical undertones.
Pronounced AIR-ee-ul.
As of October 2026, Arial ranked #11040 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1997 in 1991.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank | Births | Per million |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | #4,187 | 35 | 19.6 |
| 2015 | #4,740 | 29 | 16.2 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | 0 |