Daryl

Daryl is a given name of English origin that is commonly used for males and, less frequently, for females. It is often treated as a variant of the names Darrell or Darryl and has a variety of spellings, including Darrell, Darryl, Darrell, Derrill, and Derryl. The exact etymology is uncertain; it likely derives from surnames such as Darell or from place-based or descriptive elements that were adopted as given names in English-speaking regions.

In usage, Daryl gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century and has persisted in various spellings through the late 20th and into the 21st century. While historically more common as a male name, several notable females have borne the name, reflecting broader trend toward gender variety in given names.

Notable people and characters with the name include musician Daryl Hall; actress Daryl Hannah; actor Daryl Sabara; businessman Daryl Katz; NBA executive Daryl Morey; and musician Daryl Dragon, known as Captain of Captain & Tennille. In fiction, Daryl Dixon is a prominent character in the television series The Walking Dead. Collectively, the name Daryl is recognized for its mid- to late-20th-century popularity in English-speaking countries and its flexible use across genders and contexts.