Muriel
Meaning of Muriel
Muriel is a feminine name of ancient Celtic origin, stemming from the Gaelic Muirgel and signifying “bright sea.” It first appeared in medieval Irish legend as the name of a princess and entered English usage via Norman channels. The name enjoyed steady popularity in the early 20th century before settling into modest use and today ranks near the 900th spot among U.S. births. In Latin America, Muriel carries a refined resonance, embraced by parents seeking a blend of historical depth and understated elegance. Overall, Muriel balances storied roots with contemporary appeal, offering a concise yet evocative choice for modern families.
Pronunciation
English
- Pronunced as MYUR-ee-uhl (/ˈmjʊəriəl/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Muriel
| Dame Muriel Sarah Spark was a Scottish novelist, short story writer, poet and essayist. |
| Muriel Rukeyser was an American poet, writer, and activist whose work championed social justice and explored history and culture. |
| Muriel Lanchester was a British ceramicist who co-founded the Lanchester Marionettes puppet theatre company with her husband, Waldo. |
| Muriel Steinbeck was an Australian actress best known for Smithy and her lead role in Autumn Affair, Australia's first television soap opera. |
| Muriel Faye Siebert was an American businesswoman who became the first woman to own a seat on the New York Stock Exchange. |
| Muriel Vanderbilt was an American socialite from the wealthy Vanderbilt family who owned and bred thoroughbred racehorses. |
| Muriel Lezak was an American neuropsychologist known for her influential book Neuropsychological Assessment and her work on brain injury rehabilitation. |
| Muriel Landers was an American actress, singer and dancer who appeared in over 30 films and television shows between 1950 and 1971. |
| Muriel Ashley, Baroness Mount Temple - Muriel Emily Ashley, also known as Molly Mountemple, was a British aristocrat and stepmother to Edwina Mountbatten. |
| Muriel Lester was a British social reformer, writer and pacifist who helped found the International Fellowship of Reconciliation. |
| Muriel Newman is a former ACT New Zealand politician who served in Parliament from 1996 to 2005. |
| Muriel McQueen Fergusson was a Canadian activist, judge and politician who championed women's rights and became the first woman Speaker of the Senate. |
| Muriel Dowding was an English humanitarian and animal rights activist who pioneered the cruelty-free movement. |
| Muriel FitzRoy, 1st Viscountess Daventry - Muriel FitzRoy was a British aristocrat and wife of Edward FitzRoy, Speaker of the House of Commons. |
