Find out how popular the first name Moselle has been for the last 33 years (from 1980 to 2012) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Moselle by gender

Based on the last 33 years of data, Moselle is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2012, there were 7 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Moselle.

The history of the first name Moselle

The given name Moselle is believed to have originated from the French language, deriving its roots from the Moselle River, a major waterway flowing through northeastern France, Luxembourg, and western Germany. This river's name is derived from the Latin word "Mosella," which itself is a diminutive form of the word "Mosa," referring to the Meuse River.

The Moselle River has played a significant role in the history and culture of the regions it traverses, with numerous towns and villages dotting its banks. It is possible that the name Moselle was initially used as a place name or surname associated with these riverside settlements before transitioning into a given name.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Moselle can be found in the works of the Roman poet Ausonius, who lived in the 4th century AD. In his poem "Mosella," Ausonius provides a vivid description of the Moselle River and its surrounding landscapes, suggesting that the name held cultural significance during that time period.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Moselle. One such person was Moselle Bradbury (1873-1962), an American author and journalist known for her works on women's suffrage and social reform. Another notable figure was Moselle Muir (1886-1961), a Scottish-American actress and singer who performed on Broadway and in vaudeville theaters during the early 20th century.

In the realm of literature, Moselle Kaufman (1898-1976) was an American playwright and screenwriter who contributed to several Broadway productions and Hollywood films. Additionally, Moselle Thayer (1896-1983) was an American artist and sculptor recognized for her works in bronze and stone.

Lastly, Moselle Clapp (1901-1991) was an American lawyer and activist who played a significant role in the women's rights movement, advocating for equal rights and opportunities for women in the legal profession.

While the name Moselle may have originated from a geographical location, its usage as a given name has transcended borders and cultures, with individuals from various backgrounds bearing this name throughout history. Its connection to the Moselle River and the cultural richness of the regions it flows through have undoubtedly contributed to the name's enduring appeal.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Moselle was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Moselle, please contact us.

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