Noel: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Noel mean and stand for as a girl's name?

Meaning:

French: Christmas, born on Christmas Day
Latin: Birthday; child born at Christmas

Gender: Female, unisex

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Noel is pronounced no-el

For girls, Noel is of French origin and means "Christmas." It is often associated with the joy and spirit of the holiday season, making it a lovely choice for a feminine name.

Girl name variations

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Noel mean and stand for as a boy's name?

Meaning:

French: Christmas, born on Christmas Day
Hebrew: Comfort; wanderer

Gender: Male, unisex

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Noel is pronounced no-el

The masculine name of Noel, derived from French, means "Christmas." This name embodies the joy and spirit of the holiday season, making it a charming and festive choice for a boy.

Boy name variations

Family name origins & meanings

English and French: nickname for someone who had some special connection with the Christmas season, such as owing the particular feudal duty of providing a yule-log to the lord of the manor, or having given a memorable performance as the Lord of Misrule. The name is from Middle English, Old French no(u)el "Christmas" (Latin natalis [dies] "birthday"). It was also used as a given name for someone born during the Christmas period.

Noel in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share the first name?

Noel Kahn from Pretty Little Liars - A charming and mysterious character who becomes romantically involved with several main characters while harboring his own secrets.
Noel Crane from Felicity - A kind-hearted and artistic college student who navigates the complexities of friendship and love throughout the series.
Noel Gallagher from People Just Do Nothing - A fictionalized version of the real-life musician, featured in a comedic narrative about the struggles of aspiring artists.

Popularity of the Name Noel

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Noel has seen fluctuations in popularity, peaking in the early 2000s before experiencing a slight decline. It remains a cherished name, particularly during the holiday season, as it means 'Christmas' in French and is often associated with festive celebrations.

Noel has a rich history, with notable figures such as the musician Noel Gallagher and characters in popular media contributing to its recognition. The name has appeared in various films and series, reflecting its versatility and appeal. Fictional characters named Noel have made their mark in shows like Pretty Little Liars and Felicity, enhancing the name's cultural relevance.