The name Terell has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the word "tir," which means "honor" or "glory." It is believed to have emerged during the Anglo-Saxon period, around the 5th to 11th centuries AD, when Old English was the predominant language spoken in what is now England.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Terell can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land and property commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name appears in various spellings, such as "Tirell" and "Tyrell," reflecting the fluid nature of spelling conventions during that era.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Terell. One of the most famous was Sir Walter Terell, a 13th-century English knight who fought in the Crusades and became a prominent figure during the reign of King Henry III (1216-1272). Another was Sir James Terell, a 15th-century English soldier and politician who served as a Member of Parliament and fought in the Wars of the Roses.

In the realm of literature, the name Terell appears in Geoffrey Chaucer's epic poem "The Canterbury Tales," written in the late 14th century. One of the characters, a yeoman, is referred to as "Terell the Yeoman."

Across the Atlantic, the name Terell also has a presence in early American history. One notable figure was Terell McIntyre, a Revolutionary War soldier from Virginia who fought alongside George Washington's Continental Army.

In more recent times, the name Terell gained popularity as a first name, particularly in the United States. One notable bearer of the name was Terell Stafford, an American jazz trumpet player and educator born in 1966, who has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and won several prestigious awards in the jazz world.