Noel
Fact sheet
- Name
- Noel
- Gender
- Boy name
- Syllables
- 1
Noel is a masculine first name that is occasionally also used for girls. The name, written as Noël in French, means "the one born on Christmas."
What does the name Noel mean?
The name Noel, or Noël in French, carries the meaning "the one born on Christmas." It is derived from the Old French word Noel, which means "Christmas" and is still used in modern French as "Noël." The word originally comes from the Latin adjective natalis, meaning "birth-related" or "pertaining to birth." Through the Latin expression dies natalis, which refers to the birthday of Christ on December 25, the general meaning for "Christmas" developed. Essentially, Noel/Noël is a French counterpart to the Latin name Natalia/Natalie. Traditionally, the name Noël was given to boys born on Christmas, which is why it is originally considered a purely masculine name. The female variant is Noëlle, but over time, Noël has also established itself as a girl's name. The first name enjoys great international popularity, with the spelling Noël mainly used in French-speaking regions and Noel primarily in English-speaking areas, and increasingly in German-speaking areas. A well-known bearer of this name is British musician Noel Gallagher. In addition to Noëlle, Noelia is also a feminine form of the name.
Where does the name Noel come from?
The name Noel has its roots in Old French and Latin and means "the one born on Christmas."
How do you pronounce Noel?
The pronunciation of Noel is either one syllable or two syllables and is kept open. In the German language, the name is usually pronounced as "No-el" [ˈnoːɛl], creating a harmonious sound with two bright vowels. The final "l" provides a gentle closure. Noel conveys a stylish and modern feel - sonorous, friendly, and present.
When is the name day of Noel?
The name day for Noel/Noël is celebrated on December 24 and 25.
Popularity
In Germany, Noel is among the most popular first names. Currently, it ranks 101st among the most common male baby names. Its best placement was in 2008 at 51st. Over the last ten years, Noel has been given as a first name about 7,400 times, placing it 106th in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 99th.
Nicknames & pet names
Elli / Ello / Nel / Neli / No / Noe / Noelio / Noelli / Noello / Noelo / Nole / Noli / Nolli / Nols / Nono / Noschel / Nöggi / Nöl / Nöll / Nölle / Nöllemann / Nöller / Nööl / Seggel / Seggl / Weihnachten / Öl
Similar first names
Famous people
- Benjamin Noel Young Vaughan (British Bishop)
- Joseph-Noel Sylvestre (Painter from France)
- Julien Noel Costantin (Botanist from France)
- Noel (Anime character from Mermaid Melody)
- Noel Aramabulet (Boxer from Venezuela)
- Noel Bruynooghe (* 1971, Belgian pool billiards player)
- Noel Burgess (Australian musician)
- Noël Calef (1907–1968, French-speaking writer)
- Noel Campbell (Football player from Ireland)
- Noel Clarke (Actor from England)
- Noel DaCosta (Composer from Nigeria)
- Noel Delos (Character from the Divine Trilogy)
- Noel Devine (American football player)
- Noel Dolton (Rugby player from the USA)
- Noel Fielding (English comedian)
- Noel Fisher (Canadian actor)
- Noel Gallagher (Singer of the band Oasis)
- Noel Hunt (Irish football player)
- Noel Kipre (Footballer from Ivory Coast)
- Noel Lietaer (French footballer)
Frequently asked questions about the name Noel
What does the name Noel mean?
The name Noel means 'the one born on Christmas' and has its roots in the Old French and Latin languages.
For which gender is the name Noel suitable?
Originally, Noel is a boy's name, but it has also established itself as a girl's name. The female variant is Noëlle.
What nicknames are there for Noel?
Popular nicknames for Noel include Neli, Noe, Nöl, and Nölle. These pet names offer a personal touch.
How is the name Noel pronounced?
The name Noel is generally pronounced as 'No-el.' In French-speaking regions, the pronunciation may vary, often being pronounced as 'No-él.'