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Mabel Girl

Popularity: #210 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationMAY-buhl / /ˈmeɪ.bəl/

English; Latin

Meaning

Latin: lovable; English: strong woman

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Mabel has its roots in the Latin word "amabilis," meaning "lovable" or "worthy of love." This Latin term evolved into the Old French "Mabel," which was introduced into the English language during the medieval period. The name was likely influenced by the popularity of similar names such as Amabel, which also derives from the same Latin root. By the 13th century, Mabel began to appear in English records, marking its entry into the vernacular as a distinct name.

Historically, Mabel has been associated with various notable figures. One significant reference is to Mabel of Chester, a 12th-century noblewoman who was the daughter of Hugh de Kevelioc, the Earl of Chester. Additionally, the name appears in literature, notably in Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" from the late 14th century, where it is used in the context of courtly love. The name also gained traction through its association with saints and religious figures, contributing to its enduring presence in English-speaking cultures.

Culturally, Mabel has been linked to themes of affection and kindness, resonating with the original meaning of the name. Its gentle connotation has made it a favored choice in various literary works and artistic expressions throughout the centuries. The name has also inspired diminutive forms such as Mabs, which were used affectionately in historical contexts. Overall, Mabel's etymological roots, historical significance, and cultural associations have contributed to its lasting appeal in the English language.

Trend Summary

Mabel has experienced a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Mabelle
  • Maybelle

International Variants

  • Mabel (Spanish)
  • Mabell (English)

Famous people named Mabel

Mabel Normand is an actress and director best known for Mickey, The Extra Girl, and The Floorwalker.

Mabel King is an actress and singer best known for The Wiz, What’s Happening!!, and The Muppet Movie.

Mabel McKay is a Native American basket weaver and cultural leader best known for her contributions to the arts and her role in preserving Pomo traditions.

Mabel Dodge Luhan is a patron of the arts and writer best known for her influence on the American avant-garde and her relationships with notable artists and writers.

Fictional characters named Mabel

Mabel Pines is a fictional character from the animated television series Gravity Falls. She is a cheerful and creative girl who often provides a contrasting perspective to her twin brother, Dipper.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Mabel was first seen in the United States in 1880. Mabel has ranked as high as #106 nationally, which occurred in 1915, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, and Virginia. In the past 5 years the name Mabel has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Mabel (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 110
9%
TX 94
7%
OH 73
6%
WA 60
5%
MO 53
4%
UT 52
4%
WI 49
4%
IN 48
4%
MN 47
4%
IL 45
4%
NY 44
3%
VA 41
3%
PA 41
3%
NC 40
3%
CO 36
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880808
1881893
1882997
18831,086
18841,270
18851,349
18861,422
18871,494
18881,830
18891,947
18902,058
18912,029
18922,170
18932,191
18942,221
18952,359
18962,283
18972,222
18982,331
18992,127
19002,509
19012,097
19022,280
19032,163
19042,172
19052,178
19062,054
19072,069
19082,096
19092,007
19102,123
19112,171
19122,714
19132,741
19143,131
19153,683
19163,680
19173,499
19183,636
19193,405
19203,364
19213,336
19222,894
19232,696
19242,652
19252,292
19262,076
19271,954
19281,742
19291,516
19301,369
19311,060
19321,111
1933875
1934850
1935826
1936743
1937697
1938674
1939593
1940548
1941507
1942513
1943478
1944387
1945344
1946334
1947345
1948311
1949253
1950228
1951200
1952216
1953197
1954173
1955194
1956181
1957175
1958132
1959140
1960134
1961140
1962126
1963122
1964124
196594
196684
196772
196871
196986
197060
197175
197268
197365
197482
197568
197676
197764
197862
197970
198076
198186
198275
198373
198475
198567
198672
198786
1988105
198964
199078
199175
199280
199365
199476
199553
199658
199742
199877
199990
200075
200183
200293
200397
200490
2005106
2006116
2007127
2008139
2009147
2010177
2011196
2012241
2013393
2014427
2015529
2016605
2017703
2018727
2019712
2020717
2021831
20221,026
20231,130
20241,380