Muriel
Muriel is a girl's name of Celtic origin.
Meaning
Bright sea or sparkling sea.
Origin and history
Muriel is a classic feminine given name of Gaelic origin, derived from components meaning bright or sparkling sea. Popular in the early to mid-20th century in the United States, it now carries a vintage, traditional charm. Today, it is relatively uncommon for modern American newborns.
Popularity in the United States
54,884 babies in the United States have been named Muriel since 1880. It ranks #551 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1931.
States where it is most popular
- NY (25.2 %)
- MA (7.8 %)
- NJ (6 %)
- IL (5.8 %)
- CA (4.6 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 248 |
| 1890-1900 | 1,062 |
| 1900-1910 | 2,257 |
| 1910-1920 | 11,701 |
| 1920-1930 | 20,481 |
| 1930-1940 | 8,656 |
| 1940-1950 | 4,666 |
| 1950-1960 | 2,571 |
| 1960-1970 | 1,265 |
| 1970-1980 | 498 |
| 1980-1990 | 433 |
| 1990-2000 | 360 |
| 2000-2010 | 298 |
| 2010-2019 | 218 |
| 2020-2029 | 170 |
Famous people named Muriel
- Muriel Spark: Novelist, Writer
- Muriel Bowser: Politician, Mayor
- Muriel Siebert: Businesswoman, Stockbroker
Nicknames
Mu, Muri
Fun facts
- The name is derived from the Old Irish name Muirgheal, combining elements for sea and bright.
- Muriel was popularized in the English-speaking world partly through the 19th-century novel John Halifax, Gentleman.