Find out how popular the first name Muriel has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Muriel by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Muriel is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 27 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Muriel.

The history of the first name Muriel

The name Muriel is derived from the Latin word "murra," meaning "myrrh," which is a fragrant resin used in perfumes and incense. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Mediterranean region, where myrrh was a valuable commodity traded along the spice routes.

The name first appeared in France during the Middle Ages, where it was a popular choice among the nobility and upper classes. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name was Muriel, the daughter of King Robert II of France, who lived in the late 10th century.

In the 12th century, the name gained further prominence with the legendary figure of Muriel, the wife of the renowned English outlaw, Robin Hood. While her existence is debated by historians, she is often portrayed as a strong and loyal companion to her husband in various literary works and folk tales.

During the Renaissance period, the name Muriel was associated with several notable figures. Muriel Lester (1508-1572) was an English noblewoman and a prominent patron of the arts, known for her support of playwrights and poets of the time.

In the 19th century, Muriel Spark (1918-2006) was a renowned Scottish novelist and poet, best known for her novels "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" and "Memento Mori." Her works explored themes of morality, religion, and human nature, earning her critical acclaim and numerous literary awards.

Another famous Muriel was Muriel Duckworth (1908-2009), a Canadian activist, pacifist, and social worker. She dedicated her life to advocating for peace, human rights, and social justice, leaving a lasting impact on Canada's political and social landscape.

One cannot overlook Muriel Siebert (1928-2013), a pioneering American businesswoman and the first woman to own a seat on the New York Stock Exchange. She broke numerous glass ceilings and paved the way for women in the finance industry.

Throughout history, the name Muriel has been associated with strength, resilience, and a fragrant, enduring legacy, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and diverse personalities of those who have borne this name.

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 Muriel was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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