Sybil is a unique and distinctive feminine given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "Σύβυλλα" (Sýbulla), which means "prophetess." In ancient Greek mythology, Sybil was the title given to priestesses who possessed the gift of prophecy at Apollo's oracle at Delphi.
The name Sybil first gained prominence during the Roman Empire when a famous group of women known as the Sibyls emerged. These women were revered for their prophetic abilities and were consulted by kings, emperors, and commoners alike. The most well-known of these Sibyls was the Cumaean Sibyl, who lived in Italy and was said to have predicted the foundation of Rome.
Over time, the name Sybil has been used in various works of literature and art, further popularizing its use as a given name. For instance, it is the title character in the 1845 novel "The Woman in White" by Wilkie Collins, and also appears in Shakespeare's play "Othello."
Despite its ancient origins and historical significance, Sybil remains relatively uncommon today, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter that carries with it a rich history and fascinating mythology.
The name Sybil has had a fluctuating popularity over the years in the United States, as reflected by the statistics of its usage from 1881 to 2023.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the name Sybil saw varied usage, with between 5 and 25 births per year. The highest point during this period was in 1891, with 25 births. However, from 1906 onwards, there was a significant increase in popularity, reaching a peak of 460 births in 1918.
The name maintained its popularity throughout the 1920s and 1930s, with between 256 and 370 births per year. However, it began to decline gradually from the late 1930s onwards, falling below 100 births per year by 1961.
From the 1960s to the early 2000s, Sybil was used infrequently as a baby name in the United States, with fewer than 50 births per year. The lowest point occurred in 2002, with only 8 births.
However, since the mid-2000s, there has been a resurgence of interest in the name Sybil. From 2006 onwards, the number of births per year increased steadily, reaching a new peak of 153 births in 2023. This recent trend suggests that Sybil may be regaining its popularity as a baby name in the United States.
Overall, while Sybil has not been one of the most popular names in the United States, it has maintained a consistent presence throughout history, with periods of significant popularity and decline. Its current resurgence is an interesting development to watch in the years to come.