Gopal is a name of Indian origin, derived from the Sanskrit word "Go" meaning cow and "Pal" meaning protector or keeper. Therefore, the name Gopal means 'cow protector' or 'keeper of cows'. In Hindu mythology, Gopal is also known as one of the names of Lord Krishna, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, who was a cowherd and protector of cows in his childhood.
The name Gopal has been popular among Indians for centuries and has gained international recognition due to the widespread influence of Hinduism. It is often chosen by parents who wish to instill in their child a connection with their Hindu heritage and culture. However, it is important to note that this name can be used regardless of religious affiliation, as its meaning and origin make it a unisex name that transcends cultural boundaries.
In terms of its history, Gopal has been popular among Indian families for generations. It was particularly common during the medieval period in India when Hindu deities were revered extensively. Today, Gopal continues to be a beloved name among Indians and non-Indians alike who appreciate its rich historical significance and meaningful interpretation.
The name Gopal has seen a fluctuating trend in its usage as a baby boy's name over the past few decades in the United States.
Between 1975 and 2020, there were a total of 92 babies named Gopal born in the U.S., with an average of about one birth per year during this period. The highest number of births for the name Gopal occurred in 1983, with eight babies being named Gopal that year.
Interestingly, the years with the most births for the name Gopal tended to be spaced out throughout the time period analyzed. For instance, after a peak in 1983, there was another notable high of seven births in both 1991 and 2009. This suggests that while Gopal may not have been among the most popular names during this time frame, it has still retained some level of consistency in usage.
More recently, however, the number of births for the name Gopal appears to have decreased somewhat. Between 2016 and 2020, there were only a total of twelve births recorded for the name Gopal across these five years combined.
Despite this recent decline, it is important to note that the name Gopal still has historical significance in the United States, having been given to nearly one hundred babies over the course of several decades. Additionally, as trends in baby naming can be cyclical and unpredictable, it remains possible that the popularity of the name Gopal could experience a resurgence in future years.