Nobleman, warrior, or prince
Derived from the Old English word 'eorl', which originally referred to a man of noble rank or a chieftain. It evolved into a British title of nobility, ranking below a marquess and above a viscount. As a given name, it became popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Less common today
Earl isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #407 in 1990.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
14th Chief Justice of the United States
Influential American bluegrass banjo player
NFL Hall of Fame running back
Pioneering jazz pianist and bandleader
The protagonist seeking to fix his karma · My Name Is Earl
NBA Hall of Fame guard known as 'The Pearl'
Novelist and creator of detective Charlie Chan
