Russell
Russell comes from the Old French "Rousel," a diminutive of "rous" (red) — meaning "little red one." Bertrand Russell (1872-1970), the British philosopher whose "Principia Mathematica" shaped modern logic, is the most famous intellectual bearer. Russell (the actor Russell Crowe, born 1964, who won the Oscar for "Gladiator" (2000)) is the most famous modern bearer. Russell (the comedian Russell Brand, born 1975) gave the name a contemporary charge. The nickname Russ (as in Russ Tamblyn) is one of the most natural in English. Russell is a male name of Old French origin that means "Little red one". Serious, mid-century, and quietly intellectual. The name sounds historic. Russells tend to be thoughtful. US peaked #54 in 1956. Now outside top 400. Well-known people named Russell include Bertrand Russell (philosopher), Russell Crowe (actor), Russell Brand (comedian), Russell (Old French name). Common variations and related forms of Russell include Russ (short form), Rusty (nickname), Russel (variant), Rousseau (French related).