The name Jonelle is derived from the French feminine name Janelle, which originated as a variation of the Hebrew name Yonah, meaning "dove." The name's roots can be traced back to ancient times, with references to the name appearing in biblical texts such as the Book of Kings.

The first recorded use of the name Jonelle dates back to the 16th century in France, where it was popularized among the French aristocracy. During this time, the name was often associated with grace, beauty, and purity, reflecting the symbolism of the dove.

One of the earliest notable figures bearing the name Jonelle was Jonelle de Montmorency (1528-1593), a French noblewoman and courtier at the court of King Henry II of France. She was renowned for her beauty and elegance, and her name became synonymous with the ideals of courtly love and chivalry.

In the 17th century, the name Jonelle gained popularity among the French Protestant community, with several notable figures bearing the name. One such figure was Jonelle Durand (1622-1688), a prominent Huguenot writer and theologian who played a significant role in the Reformation movement.

As the name spread across Europe, it gained various spellings and variations, such as Jonella, Jonell, and Jonel. In the 19th century, the name Jonelle was particularly popular in Germany, where it was associated with the Romantic movement and the ideals of nature and purity.

One of the most famous bearers of the name Jonelle was Jonelle von Goethe (1794-1873), the daughter of the renowned German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. She was a celebrated author and artist in her own right, known for her contributions to the Romantic literary movement.

In the 20th century, the name Jonelle gained popularity in the United States, where it was often associated with a sense of sophistication and elegance. One notable American figure with the name was Jonelle Smith (1923-2010), a renowned fashion designer and entrepreneur who founded the Jonelle clothing line.