The name Danielle is a French feminine form of the masculine name Daniel, which is derived from the Hebrew name Daniyyel. The name Daniyyel likely comes from the Hebrew words "din" meaning "to judge" and "el" meaning "God", so the name can be interpreted as "God is my judge".

The name first appeared in the Old Testament of the Bible, as the name of the prophet Daniel. Daniel was a young Hebrew man taken into captivity by the Babylonians in the 6th century BC. He became known for his ability to interpret dreams and visions, as well as his unwavering faith.

As a feminine name, Danielle emerged in France during the Middle Ages. One of the earliest recorded examples is Danielle de Ramerupt, a 12th-century French noblewoman. By the 13th century, the name had become more widespread among the French aristocracy.

Throughout history, several notable women have borne the name Danielle. These include Danielle de Brie (1448-1516), a French nun and writer; Danielle Huillet (1936-2006), a French filmmaker; and Danielle Steel (born 1947), the prolific American novelist.

In the realm of royalty, Danielle de Bourbon (1616-1684) was a French princess and the legitimized daughter of King Henry IV of France. Another royal figure was Danielle of Lezignan (1215-1235), a French noblewoman who married Raymond VII of Toulouse.

The name Danielle has also been carried by prominent figures in the arts and sciences. Danielle Darrieux (1917-2017) was a French actress who appeared in over 100 films. Danielle Régine Simon-Pierre (1925-2018), better known as Régine, was a French nightclub owner and singer who helped popularize the modern cabaret.

These are just a few examples of the many women throughout history who have borne the name Danielle, a name with roots dating back to ancient Hebrew and a long tradition in French culture.