Neil
Meaning: Champion or cloud
Origin: Irish/Scottish Gaelic
Gender: Boy
Rank in Australia: #106
Total births: 5,615
History: Neil peaked in the 1960s in Australia. Neil Finn (though a Kiwi) is beloved across Australia through Crowded House — 'Don't Dream It's Over' is practically an ANZAC anthem. Neil represents the unbreakable Australian-New Zealand bond.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Australia’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (1985) | #98 |
| Babies named Neil in 1985 | 74 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 5,615 |
| Peak year | 1955 (322 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #32 |
| Years in records | 1952–1985 (31 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 1 spot |
Frequently asked about Neil
What does the name Neil mean?
Neil means “Champion or cloud” from Irish/Scottish Gaelic roots.
What is the origin of the name Neil?
Neil has Irish/Scottish Gaelic origin. The traditional meaning is “Champion or cloud”.
How popular is Neil in Australia?
Neil ranked #98 in Australia in 1985 — given to 74 babies that year.
When was Neil most popular?
Neil peaked in 1955 with 322 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is Neil a boy or girl name?
Neil is predominantly a boys' name in Australia — over 90% of Neils in registered births are male.
How long has Neil been recorded in Australia?
Neil appears in birth records in Australia across 31 years — from 1952 through 1985.