Find out how popular the first name Terrell has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Terrell by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Terrell is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 98% of people named Terrell being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 106 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Terrell.

The history of the first name Terrell

The name Terrell is derived from the Old French word "terrier," which means "landowner" or "farmer." It is closely related to the French word "terre," meaning "earth" or "land." This name originated in the 12th century in France, particularly in the northern regions.

During the Middle Ages, the name Terrell was commonly used to refer to landowners or farmers who worked the land. It was a surname that identified one's occupation or social status. Over time, it transitioned into a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Terrell can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of landowners and property in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. This historical record includes several references to individuals with the surname Terrell or similar spellings.

In the 13th century, a notable figure named Terrell de Vere was a prominent English nobleman and military commander during the Barons' War against King Henry III. He played a significant role in the events leading up to the signing of the Provisions of Oxford in 1258.

Another historical figure bearing the name Terrell was Terrell the Scribe, a 14th-century English calligrapher and illuminator known for his work on religious manuscripts and documents. His intricate and beautifully decorated works can be found in various collections across Europe.

In the 16th century, Terrell Garrett was an English explorer and navigator who accompanied Sir Walter Raleigh on several expeditions to the Americas. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Roanoke Colony in present-day North Carolina.

During the 17th century, Terrell Parke was a renowned English architect who designed several notable buildings, including the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral in London. His architectural style influenced the development of the English Baroque movement.

In the 19th century, Terrell Edmunds was an African-American abolitionist and civil rights activist who fought against slavery and advocated for equal rights for Black Americans. He was a prominent figure in the Underground Railroad movement, helping countless enslaved individuals escape to freedom.

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

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

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