“sea dark, bright sea” — Associated with the meaning 'God has spoken
Ireland origin · Unisex name
♂ 1% boys♀ 99% girls
#1605US 2023
595Births / yr
→Stable
55.5kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.2% of births at peak
How to pronounce Muriel
MYUHR·ee·ul
/ˈmjʊr.iː.əl/ · stress on MYUHR · 3 syllables
“sea dark, bright sea”
Associated with the meaning 'God has spoken · Ireland origin
What does Muriel mean and where does it come from?
Muriel is of Irish origin and has been used since the Middle Ages. It gained popularity in the 19th century and saw a resurgence in the 20th century. The name can also have Hebrew roots as it is sometimes associated with the meaning 'God has spoken.' Notable bearers include Muriel Spark, a Scottish
Cultural significance
Muriel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sea dark, bright sea.
Holding steady — currently #1605 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1605 · Top 1.2%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1605
595
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022
#1610
575
▲ up 5 · +6% births
2021
#1615
545
▲ up 4193 · +2625% births
2020
#5808
20
▼ down 966 · -29% births
2015
#4842
28
▲ up 1136 · +27% births
2010
#5978
22
▼ down 1151 · -19% births
2005
#4827
27
▼ down 939 · -16% births
2000
#3888
32
▼ down 797 · -14% births
1995
#3091
37
▼ down 65
1990
#3026
37
▼ down 479 · -3% births
1985
#2547
38
▼ down 503 · -25% births
1980
#2044
51
▼ down 328 · -7% births
1975
#1716
55
▼ down 346 · -28% births
1970
#1370
76
▼ down 366 · -30% births
1965
#1004
108
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Muriel
1920Rank #123
2,215
#1742
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Muriel
Muriel has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 55,494 babies have received this name. Once ranked #719 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1605 in 2023. Muriel is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Muriel means "sea dark, bright sea" — a name rooted in Ireland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Muriel?
Muriel is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Muriel?
Muriel originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Muriel?
Muriel is a three-syllable name pronounced M Y UH1 R IY0 AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Muriel?
Muriel pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Ireland heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Muriel
For a sister
Muriel & Nora♡
Muriel & Riley♡
Muriel & Quinn♡
Muriel & Gael♡
For a brother
Muriel & Erris♡
Muriel & Esker♡
Muriel & Donard♡
Muriel & Nolan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1605
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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