The name Rebel is of English origin and it means "one who refuses to conform to standards, rules or laws". The term 'rebel' has been used in various contexts throughout history to describe someone who opposes authority, tradition or established norms.
In popular culture, the name Rebel has gained popularity due to its association with celebrities such as Rebel Wilson, an Australian actress and comedian. However, it is important to note that Rebel Wilson's real name is Melanie Elizabeth Wilson, but she adopted the stage name Rebel Wilson early on in her career.
The name Rebel has also been used in literature and music. For instance, there was a popular song called "Rebel" by The Crests released in 1960 which told the story of a rebellious youth. Additionally, the term 'rebel' has been used to describe iconic literary figures like the character Holden Caulfield in J.D. Salinger's novel "The Catcher in the Rye".
Despite its historical and cultural significance, it is important to note that the name Rebel is not typically found on lists of common baby names. It is considered quite unique and unusual, which may be appealing to parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
In conclusion, while the name Rebel has gained popularity in recent years due to its association with certain celebrities and cultural references, it remains relatively uncommon as a given name. Its meaning and historical significance, however, make it an interesting choice for those who wish to convey a sense of independence and nonconformity through their child's name.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Rebel has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. While there were only five births with the name Rebel each year between 1912 and 1958, the number of births began to rise steadily in the following decades.
From 1967 onwards, we see more than forty-two births per year, reaching eighty-four births by 2013. This trend continued through recent years, with Rebel being given to over one hundred babies annually between 2015 and 2021. The name's popularity peaked in 2021 with 130 births, indicating that many parents are now choosing the name Rebel for their children.
In conclusion, while Rebel was once a relatively rare name, it has since become increasingly popular in the United States. This steady rise over time reflects its growing appeal among parents seeking distinctive and unique names for their children.