Muriel

What does the baby name Muriel mean? Learn about what Muriel means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Muriel - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Muriel: M-U-R-I-E-L, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Muriel: MYOO-ree-əl; Mur YELL
Meaning of Muriel: Myrrh, shining sea, sea bright, shiny sea.
Origin of Muriel: The name 'Muriel' is a feminine name with origins that can be traced back to both Celtic and French roots. It is believed to have derived from the Celtic word 'muir', meaning 'sea', and the diminutive suffix 'iel', which translates to 'bright' or 'shining'. 'Muriel 's earliest known use can be found in medieval French literature, particularly in the story of 'Tristan and Iseult', where 'Muriel' is portrayed as a fairy queen.; Arabic Names; Celtic Names; English Names; French Names; Gaelic Names; Irish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Muriel: Maga; Maida; Maieli; Maija; Maika; Maion; Mair; Maire; Mal; Malana; Mallie; Mame; Mamie; Manette; Manka; Manna; Manon; Manya; Marabel; Maral; Maraya; Marda; Mardi; Maree; Marel; Marella; Marelle; Maresa; Maret; Maretta; Marfa; Mari; Maria; Mariah; Marial; Mariam; Marian; Mariana; Marianne; Marica; Marice; Maridel; Marie; Marieke; Mariel; Mariella; Marielle; Marien; Marij; Marija; Marijke; Marika; Marilee; Marilla; Marilyn; Marin; Marinha; Marion; Maris; Mariska; Marita; Maritsa; Marja; Marjaka; Marjatta; Marla; Marley; Marlo; Maroula; Marsia; Maruca; Maruchka; Maruka; Maruska; Mary; Marya; Maryal; Marybel; Marybelle; Marysa; Mashka; Maura; Maureen; Maurise; Maurizia; Mavra; Mearr; Meral; Mere; Mergen; Meri; Meria; Meridel; Meriel; Merika; Merla; Merrie; Merrill; Merry; Meryl; Mhaire; Mhairi; Mieke; Mieze; Mija; Mimi; Mina; Minette; Mira; Mirell; Mirella; Miriam; Mirla; Mitzi; Moira; Moire; Molara; Mollie; Molly; Mora; Morag; Moria; Moya; Moyra; Muire; Murial; Polly
Popularity of Muriel: Over the years, the popularity of the name 'Muriel' has fluctuated. In the early 20th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, reaching its peak in the 1920s and 1930s. During this time, 'Muriel' was a fashionable choice for parents, and it ranked among the top 100 names for girls in the United States. However, its popularity gradually declined in the following decades, and it is now considered a less common name.; Muriel currently has 74 likes, and is in the top 8% of liked girl's names. The name Keri is slightly more popular than Muriel.

Etymology of Muriel

The etymology of the name 'Muriel' can be traced back to its Celtic and French origins. The Celtic word 'muir' refers to the sea, symbolizing vastness and depth. The suffix 'iel' adds a touch of brightness and radiance to the name. Therefore, 'Muriel' can be interpreted as 'bright sea' or 'shining sea'. This combination of elements evokes images of the sparkling waters and the beauty of the ocean.

Cultural Significance of Muriel

In Celtic mythology, the sea held great significance, representing both life and death. 'Muriel 's association with the sea in its etymology suggests a connection to these ancient beliefs. Additionally, 'Muriel 's portrayal as a fairy queen in 'Tristan and Iseult' adds to its cultural significance, as fairies hold a prominent place in Celtic folklore. The name 'Muriel', therefore, carries a sense of enchantment and mystique.