Terrell Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationTER-uhl / /ˈtɛr.əl/English; French
Meaning
English: to pull; French: to tear
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Terrell has its roots in the Old French name "Tirel," which is derived from the Latin word "terra," meaning "earth" or "land." The name evolved through various forms, including the Middle English "Tirelle," before being anglicized to Terrell. This linguistic journey reflects the influence of Norman culture on the English language following the Norman Conquest of 1066, which introduced a multitude of French names into English vernacular.
Historically, the name Terrell can be traced back to the medieval period, where it was used as a surname before becoming a given name. The surname Tirel was recorded in England as early as the 12th century, and it was associated with landowners and nobility, suggesting a connection to the earth and land ownership. The name's association with the earth may have contributed to its symbolic significance, representing stability and grounding.
Culturally, Terrell has been linked to various traditions and has appeared in literature and historical texts. While not as prominent as some other names, it has maintained a presence in English-speaking cultures. The name can also be found in diminutive forms such as Terry, which has been used as a nickname or affectionate form. The enduring nature of Terrell can be attributed to its solid etymological roots and the cultural values associated with land and stability, which resonate across generations.
Trend Summary
The name Terrell has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the late 20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Terrel
- Terral
International Variants
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Famous people named Terrell
Terrell Owens is a former professional American football wide receiver best known for his time with the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys.
Terrell Davis is a former professional American football running back best known for his career with the Denver Broncos and winning Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII.
Fictional characters named Terrell
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Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Terrell was first seen in the United States in 1885. Terrell has ranked as high as #499 nationally, which occurred in 1989, and has been most popular in Illinois, Georgia, New York, Florida, and California. In the past 5 years the name Terrell has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Terrell (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
FL | 12 | |
CA | 9 | |
GA | 9 | |
IL | 9 | |
TX | 8 | |
OH | 8 | |
MI | 6 | |
SC | 6 | |
WI | 5 | |
NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1885 | 5 |
1890 | 5 |
1900 | 8 |
1901 | 5 |
1902 | 5 |
1903 | 8 |
1907 | 8 |
1908 | 7 |
1909 | 8 |
1910 | 5 |
1911 | 8 |
1912 | 27 |
1913 | 15 |
1914 | 25 |
1915 | 30 |
1916 | 35 |
1917 | 30 |
1918 | 35 |
1919 | 34 |
1920 | 47 |
1921 | 36 |
1922 | 42 |
1923 | 32 |
1924 | 46 |
1925 | 36 |
1926 | 36 |
1927 | 45 |
1928 | 42 |
1929 | 41 |
1930 | 36 |
1931 | 28 |
1932 | 48 |
1933 | 47 |
1934 | 57 |
1935 | 64 |
1936 | 65 |
1937 | 67 |
1938 | 72 |
1939 | 88 |
1940 | 118 |
1941 | 130 |
1942 | 102 |
1943 | 119 |
1944 | 131 |
1945 | 133 |
1946 | 187 |
1947 | 182 |
1948 | 212 |
1949 | 202 |
1950 | 203 |
1951 | 194 |
1952 | 177 |
1953 | 178 |
1954 | 195 |
1955 | 199 |
1956 | 201 |
1957 | 213 |
1958 | 263 |
1959 | 221 |
1960 | 220 |
1961 | 206 |
1962 | 226 |
1963 | 254 |
1964 | 220 |
1965 | 243 |
1966 | 247 |
1967 | 327 |
1968 | 297 |
1969 | 319 |
1970 | 354 |
1971 | 345 |
1972 | 352 |
1973 | 364 |
1974 | 339 |
1975 | 492 |
1976 | 502 |
1977 | 591 |
1978 | 502 |
1979 | 593 |
1980 | 604 |
1981 | 600 |
1982 | 682 |
1983 | 713 |
1984 | 801 |
1985 | 890 |
1986 | 857 |
1987 | 868 |
1988 | 918 |
1989 | 983 |
1990 | 925 |
1991 | 949 |
1992 | 849 |
1993 | 847 |
1994 | 734 |
1995 | 696 |
1996 | 669 |
1997 | 688 |
1998 | 862 |
1999 | 705 |
2000 | 608 |
2001 | 531 |
2002 | 503 |
2003 | 516 |
2004 | 512 |
2005 | 519 |
2006 | 500 |
2007 | 521 |
2008 | 480 |
2009 | 451 |
2010 | 378 |
2011 | 383 |
2012 | 350 |
2013 | 322 |
2014 | 276 |
2015 | 248 |
2016 | 229 |
2017 | 244 |
2018 | 215 |
2019 | 190 |
2020 | 173 |
2021 | 176 |
2022 | 160 |
2023 | 108 |
2024 | 120 |