US Popularity Rank: 4417

Origin: Celtic

Meaning: Cloud; Champion, hero; Dark

You're onto a winner with this name, that's especially perfect for any dark-haired boy. Nigel, a name of Celtic origin, comes from the Irish name Niall, meaning "champion" or "hero" from niadh or "cloud" from nél. It also has roots in the Latin word niger, which means "dark." The name Niall traveled across Europe for some time, becoming Njall in Scandinavia, then the Latin and Old French Nigellus in Normandy, and finally Nigel in England. It has a classic feel that'll prove to be perfect if baby is an old soul.