Meriel - name meaning, origin

The girl's name Meriel \m(e)-

is pronounced MARE-ee-al. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "sea nymph; shining sea". Originally from Normandy and Brittany in France since the 16th century, with the meaning "sea nymph" from "mer" (French for the sea) and "eriel" (Breton for nymph). In the 18th century it went across the English Channel and became Muriel. In Ireland, it is Gaelic for "shining sea". Also related to Muireall, the Scots Gaelic form of Muirgheal. See also Mariel.

For more information, see also the related name Mary.

Baby names that sound like Meriel are Merill and Merel.

Meriel is an uncommon first name for women and an equally uncommon last name for both men and women. (1990 U.S. Census)

Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the girl name Meriel. Compare Meriel with its variant forms and related girl names.