Cecil is a name of English origin that has been used for centuries. It is derived from the Latin word "caecus," which means blind or sightless. The name was initially used as a nickname for people who were visually impaired, but over time it evolved into a given name in its own right.
The first recorded use of Cecil as a given name was in the 13th century, when it appeared as a surname. However, it wasn't until the 16th century that Cecil began to be used as a first name. The most famous bearer of this name is undoubtedly Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, who served as a chief advisor and secretary of state to King James I of England.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures with the name Cecil. These include Sir Arthur Cecil, an English businessman and philanthropist, and Cecil Rhodes, the British colonial administrator and mining magnate after whom the country of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) is named.
Despite its historical roots, Cecil remains a relatively uncommon name today. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, there were only 13 babies named Cecil in 2019. However, for those who choose this unique and historic name, it offers a connection to the rich tapestry of English history.
The name Cecil peaked in popularity during the late 19th to early 20th century, with over 150 births per year between 1893 and 1924. However, its usage significantly declined after World War II, dropping below 20 births per year from 1963 onwards, and falling as low as 5 births in some recent years like 2004, 2015, and 2022.