Find out how popular the first name Ryel has been for the last 18 years (from 2007 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ryel by gender

Based on the last 18 years of data, Ryel is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 79% of people named Ryel being male.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 11 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Ryel.

The history of the first name Ryel

The name Ryel is a modern variation of the ancient Germanic name Ruel, which originated in the 5th century AD. It is derived from the Old High German words "rūni" meaning "secret" and "wal" meaning "ruler" or "leader". Together, these words suggest that Ruel may have been a name bestowed upon individuals entrusted with sacred knowledge or those in positions of authority within their communities.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Ruel can be found in the Codex Sangallensis, an 8th-century manuscript containing a list of Germanic personal names. This suggests that the name was in use among Germanic tribes during the early medieval period.

In the 11th century, a Frankish nobleman named Ruel de Vaux is mentioned in the historical records of the Abbey of Saint-Remi in Reims, France. This indicates that the name had spread beyond its Germanic origins and was being used in other parts of Europe at that time.

During the Renaissance period, a Italian painter named Ruel d'Ayton (1470-1540) gained prominence for his religious works commissioned by the Catholic Church. His artwork can still be seen in various churches and museums across Italy.

In the 17th century, a French philosopher and mathematician named Ruel Descartes (1596-1650) made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, philosophy, and science. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential thinkers of the modern era.

Another notable figure bearing the name Ruel was an English composer and organist named Ruel Brindle (1867-1942). He is best known for his compositions for the Anglican Church and his work as the organist at Westminster Abbey.

While the name Ryel is a more recent variation, it maintains a connection to the ancient Germanic roots of Ruel and carries the connotations of secrecy, leadership, and authority associated with its original meaning.

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

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

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