The name Rochelle is of French origin and has its roots in the Old French word "rochelle," which means "little rock." It is believed to have been derived from the name of the French town of La Rochelle, located in the western part of the country.

The earliest recorded use of the name Rochelle dates back to the 12th century, where it was used as a surname for those who lived near or came from the town of La Rochelle. Over time, the name transitioned from a surname to a given name, particularly popular among French Christians.

One of the earliest documented references to the name Rochelle can be found in the "Chanson de Roland," an ancient French epic poem dating back to the late 11th century. In this poem, a character named Rochelle is mentioned as a brave warrior who fought alongside the legendary Roland.

During the Middle Ages, the name Rochelle gained popularity among the French nobility and aristocracy. One notable historical figure with this name was Rochelle de Montmorency (1492-1557), a French noblewoman and courtier who served as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Claude of France.

In the 17th century, the name Rochelle became associated with the Siege of La Rochelle, a significant event during the Huguenot rebellions in France. The city of La Rochelle was a Protestant stronghold, and its resistance against the Catholic forces led by King Louis XIII was renowned. This historical event further increased the name's recognition and association with strength and resilience.

Another notable figure with the name Rochelle was Rochelle de Vieux-Pont (1665-1722), a French playwright and poet who gained recognition for her works during the Age of Enlightenment. Her plays often explored themes of love, tragedy, and societal issues, earning her a prominent place in French literary history.

In the 19th century, the name Rochelle was popularized in the United States, particularly among French-Americans. One prominent American figure with this name was Rochelle Saltonstall (1792-1857), a philanthropist and social reformer who dedicated her life to improving the lives of the underprivileged and advocating for women's rights.

As the name Rochelle spread across different cultures and regions, it continued to be associated with strength, resilience, and a connection to French heritage. Rochelle Ascher (1901-1994) was a German-born American artist and sculptor known for her innovative works in metal and her involvement in the Bauhaus movement. Rochelle Owens (1936-present) is an American poet and playwright celebrated for her experimental writing and contributions to the avant-garde literary scene.