Ethel
GirlOld English
Ethel is a girl name of Old English origin meaning "noble, of noble lineage".
About this name
Gender
Girl
Language
Old English
Religion
None
Popularity
23 / 100
Syllables
2
Length
5 letters
Meaning
noble, of noble lineage
Etymology
From Old English æthel meaning 'noble'. Originally a short form of names beginning with the æthel- element, such as Æthelred or Æthelwynn.
Famous People Named Ethel
- Ethel Barrymore — American actress (1879–1959)
- Ethel Merman — American actress and singer (1908-1984)
- Ethel Lilian Voynich — British writer and musician (1864–1960)
- Ethel Smyth — English composer and suffragette (1858–1944)
- Ethel Kennedy — American human-rights campaigner and spouse of US Senator Robert F. Kennedy
Frequently Asked Questions About Ethel
What does the name Ethel mean?
Ethel means "noble, of noble lineage", and is of Old English origin.
What is the origin of the name Ethel?
Ethel originates from Old English, commonly used in Western Europe.
Is Ethel a boy or girl name?
Ethel is typically used as a girl name.
What religion is the name Ethel associated with?
Ethel is associated with None.
Are there famous people named Ethel?
Yes — notable people named Ethel include Ethel Barrymore (American actress, 1879–1959), Ethel Merman (American actress and singer, 1908-1984), Ethel Lilian Voynich (British writer and musician, 1864–1960), Ethel Smyth (English composer and suffragette, 1858–1944) and Ethel Kennedy (American human-rights campaigner and spouse of US Senator Robert F. Kennedy).
Last updated: June 2026