The name Eriel is of uncertain origin, but it is believed to be derived from the Hebrew language. Some scholars suggest that it is a combination of the Hebrew words "ari," meaning "lion," and "el," which is a reference to God or a powerful being. This would give Eriel the meaning of "lion of God" or "lion of the mighty one."

Another theory proposes that Eriel is a variant spelling of the Hebrew name Ariel, which means "lion of God" or "lioness of God." This name appears in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Isaiah, where it is used as a symbolic name for Jerusalem.

The earliest recorded use of the name Eriel dates back to the late 19th century, when it was occasionally given to children in English-speaking countries. It is possible that the name was inspired by the biblical name Ariel, but with a slightly different spelling.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Eriel was Eriel Franklin Philips (1904-1970), an American businessman and co-founder of Phillips Petroleum Company. He played a significant role in the growth of the oil industry in the United States during the early 20th century.

Another individual named Eriel was Eriel Evelyn Milliken (1912-2010), a British actress and singer who performed on stage and in films during the mid-20th century. She had a successful career in the entertainment industry, particularly in the West End of London.

In the field of literature, Eriel was the first name of Eriel Brissa (1929-2005), a Mexican novelist and poet. She was known for her works exploring themes of identity, feminism, and social issues in Mexican society.

Eriel Arcus (1943-2018) was a South African artist and sculptor who gained recognition for his abstract and figurative works. He was part of the influential Johannesburg art scene during the apartheid era and contributed to the development of contemporary art in South Africa.

Lastly, Eriel Jones (born 1968) is an American actress and singer who has appeared in various television shows and films. She is best known for her roles in the sitcoms "Family Matters" and "The Parkers."

While the name Eriel is not among the most common given names, it has been used throughout history by individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions, reflecting its unique and intriguing origins.