Naelle first name popularity, history and meaning

Find out how popular the first name Naelle has been for the last 14 years (from 2011 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Meaning of Naelle

A feminine name of French origin meaning "Christmas baby".

Popularity of Naelle by gender

Based on the last 14 years of data, Naelle is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 9 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Naelle.

Year Male Count Female Count
2024 0 9
2023 0 14
2022 0 7
2021 0 11
2020 0 12
2019 0 12
2018 0 10
2017 0 8
2016 0 7
2015 0 14
2014 0 5
2013 0 13
2012 0 9
2011 0 8

The history of the first name Naelle

The name Naelle is believed to have originated in the Breton language, which is a Celtic Brittonic language spoken in Brittany, a cultural region in the northwest of France. The name is thought to be derived from the Breton word "nael," meaning "nail" or "claw," suggesting a connection to strength or determination.

Although the exact origins of the name are uncertain, it is believed to have been in use as early as the Middle Ages. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in a 12th-century Breton manuscript, where it appears as "Naelle" in reference to a noblewoman from the region.

Throughout history, the name has been associated with various notable figures. One such individual was Naelle de Penthièvre (c. 1324-1384), a Breton noble who played a significant role in the Breton War of Succession in the 14th century. Another notable bearer of the name was Naelle de Tréguier (c. 1450-1520), a Breton abbess and writer known for her religious works.

In the literary realm, the name Naelle appears in the epic poem "La Geste de Naelle" (The Deeds of Naelle), written in the 13th century by an unknown Breton author. The poem tells the story of a legendary Breton warrior named Naelle and her exploits in defending her homeland.

Moving into the modern era, one notable figure with the name Naelle was Naelle Trébaol (1920-1998), a French artist and sculptor known for her abstract works. Her sculptures can be found in various public spaces and galleries throughout France.

Another individual worth mentioning is Naelle Caillau (born 1962), a French writer and playwright who has authored several critically acclaimed works, including the novel "La Chambre aux Loups" (The Wolf's Room) and the play "Les Montagnes Russes" (The Roller Coaster).

While the name Naelle may not be as common as some other names, it has a rich history and cultural significance, particularly in the Breton and French traditions. Its connection to strength, determination, and literary works has made it a name with enduring appeal throughout the centuries.

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

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

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"Naelle first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on October 13, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/naelle-meaning-and-history/.

"Naelle first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/naelle-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 13 October, 2025

Naelle first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/naelle-meaning-and-history/.

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