Opal

girlEnglish

Opal is an girl name of English, via Latin and Sanskrit origin, meaning “Opal gemstone”.

MeaningOpal gemstone
GenderGirl
OriginEnglish, via Latin and Sanskrit
PronunciationOH-pul
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Australia

Meaning and origin of Opal

Opal is named after the gemstone, known for its shifting play of colours. The word came into English from Latin opalus, which is often traced through Greek to the Sanskrit upala, 'precious stone'. Opal was a popular girl's name in the United States around 1900, during the fashion for gem names, and it has been revived in the past decade. It is the traditional birthstone for October.

Is Opal a religious name?

Opal is a secular gemstone name with no religious background.

How popular is Opal?

Rising again in the United States after a century of rarity.

Gifts with the name Opal

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Spellings and variants of Opal

Opaline

Names similar to Opal

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Opal mean?

Opal means 'Opal gemstone'. It is of English, via Latin and Sanskrit origin.

Does Opal have a religious meaning?

Opal is a secular gemstone name with no religious background.

How do you pronounce Opal?

Opal is pronounced OH-pul.

Is Opal a boy or girl name?

Opal is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.