Find out how popular the first name Richel has been for the last 23 years (from 1976 to 1998) and learn more about the meaning and history.
A feminine name likely derived from a combination of "Richard" and "Rachel".
Based on the last 23 years of data, Richel is exclusively a female name.
For the most recent data in 1998, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Richel.
| Year | Male Count | Female Count |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 0 | 5 |
| 1993 | 0 | 5 |
| 1991 | 0 | 9 |
| 1990 | 0 | 6 |
| 1989 | 0 | 7 |
| 1988 | 0 | 7 |
| 1986 | 0 | 6 |
| 1985 | 0 | 6 |
| 1984 | 0 | 5 |
| 1983 | 0 | 6 |
| 1981 | 0 | 8 |
| 1979 | 0 | 7 |
| 1978 | 0 | 5 |
| 1976 | 0 | 7 |
The name Richel is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages, derived from the Germanic root "rīk," meaning "ruler" or "powerful." It was a popular name among the nobility and ruling classes during this period, as it conveyed a sense of strength and authority.
One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Richel can be found in the Codex Diplomaticus, a collection of medieval documents from the 9th century. The name appears in a charter from the year 842, referring to a nobleman named Richel von Aachen.
During the High Middle Ages, the name Richel gained prominence in various regions of Europe, particularly in France and Germany. It was often associated with figures of importance and influence, such as knights, lords, and members of the clergy.
In the 12th century, a Benedictine monk named Richel of Reims became renowned for his scholarly works and contributions to the monastic community. His writings on theology and philosophy were widely circulated and studied in monasteries across Europe.
Another notable figure bearing the name Richel was a French nobleman from the 13th century, Richel de Montfort. He was a influential military leader and played a significant role in the Albigensian Crusade against the Cathars in southern France.
In the 14th century, a German knight named Richel von Schwarzenberg gained fame for his military exploits during the Hundred Years' War. He was known for his bravery and loyalty to the Holy Roman Emperor, and his name was often invoked as a symbol of chivalry and honor.
During the Renaissance period, the name Richel continued to be used, albeit less frequently. One notable individual from this era was Richel Trastamara, a Spanish nobleman and diplomat who served as an envoy to the court of King Henry VIII of England in the early 16th century.
While the name Richel has become less common in modern times, its historical significance and connections to nobility, leadership, and strength continue to make it a unique and distinctive name with a rich cultural heritage.
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 Richel was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.
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"Richel first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on October 24, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/richel-meaning-and-history/.
"Richel first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/richel-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 24 October, 2025
Richel first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/richel-meaning-and-history/.
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