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Mitchell Boy

Popularity: #668 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationMIT-chuhl / /ˈmɪtʃəl/

English; French

Meaning

English: Who is like God?; French: Little Michael

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Mitchell originates from the Hebrew name מִיכָאֵל (Mikha'el), meaning "Who is like God?" This name was adopted into Greek as Μιχαήλ (Mikhaēl) and later into Latin as Michael. The transition into Old French occurred during the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, where it became Michel. The Anglicization of the name to Mitchell emerged in the Middle Ages, particularly in the 12th century, as surnames began to develop from given names, often indicating lineage or descent, thus linking it to the original Michael.

Historically, the name Michael has significant biblical roots, being borne by the archangel Michael, a prominent figure in Judeo-Christian traditions. He is often depicted as a protector and leader of the heavenly armies, a role that has contributed to the name's enduring popularity across various cultures. The name appears in the Old Testament and is referenced in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Revelation. The name Mitchell, as a derivative, has also been borne by notable figures throughout history, including various saints and rulers, which has further solidified its place in cultural and religious contexts.

Culturally, the name Mitchell carries connotations of strength and protection, reflecting its biblical origins. It has been associated with various traditions, including the celebration of Michaelmas, a feast day in honor of Saint Michael, observed in late September. This association with the archangel has imbued the name with a sense of reverence and significance in Christian communities. Additionally, the diminutive form "Mitch" has emerged as a familiar variant, often used in informal contexts, though it retains the original name's connotations of strength and divine protection.

Trend Summary

Mitchell has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the 1980s and 1990s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Michell
  • Michele

International Variants

  • Mikael (Swedish)
  • Mikhail (Russian)
  • Michele (Italian)
  • Miguel (Spanish)

Famous people named Mitchell

Mitchell Baker is a technology executive best known for co-founding Mozilla and leading the Mozilla Foundation.

Mitchell Musso is an actor and musician best known for Hannah Montana, Phineas and Ferb, and Pair of Kings.

Mitchell Johnson is a former cricketer best known for his performances with the Australian national team.

Mitchell Gold is a furniture designer and entrepreneur best known for Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams.

Mitchell Trubisky is a professional football player best known for being the quarterback for the Chicago Bears and the Buffalo Bills.

Fictional characters named Mitchell

Mitchell Pritchett is a fictional character from the TV show Modern Family. He is a lawyer and one half of a same-sex couple raising a daughter with his partner, Cameron.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Mitchell was first seen in the United States in 1880. Mitchell has ranked as high as #133 nationally, which occurred in 1994, and has been most popular in California, New York, Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Mitchell has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Mitchell (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 23
13%
FL 14
8%
GA 14
8%
OH 13
7%
PA 13
7%
CA 13
7%
MI 12
7%
NC 11
6%
MD 9
5%
NY 8
4%
MA 8
4%
TN 8
4%
CT 7
4%
AL 7
4%
VA 7
4%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188032
188120
188236
188330
188434
188529
188624
188728
188844
188921
189030
189129
189236
189338
189439
189531
189637
189739
189839
189928
190052
190131
190250
190336
190437
190546
190639
190743
190854
190972
191082
191179
1912137
1913196
1914272
1915328
1916346
1917380
1918431
1919361
1920415
1921425
1922386
1923372
1924366
1925346
1926344
1927297
1928314
1929259
1930247
1931274
1932249
1933208
1934262
1935277
1936271
1937249
1938287
1939295
1940325
1941355
1942488
1943513
1944518
1945518
1946664
1947791
1948861
19491,091
19501,224
19511,439
19521,758
19531,884
19542,145
19552,274
19562,403
19573,026
19582,845
19592,964
19602,971
19613,201
19622,831
19632,709
19642,383
19651,881
19661,728
19671,696
19681,623
19691,653
19701,541
19711,345
19721,366
19731,217
19741,231
19751,178
19761,188
19771,263
19781,269
19791,368
19801,521
19811,969
19822,069
19831,878
19842,152
19852,452
19862,664
19872,870
19883,323
19893,645
19904,021
19913,882
19924,122
19934,584
19945,370
19954,737
19964,391
19974,068
19983,624
19993,216
20002,983
20012,568
20022,172
20031,891
20041,648
20051,447
20061,254
20071,108
2008979
2009855
2010737
2011667
2012588
2013616
2014563
2015473
2016465
2017396
2018399
2019358
2020342
2021305
2022305
2023291
2024258