Origin and Meaning of Meriel

Meaning & Origin

Bright Sea or Shining Sea

Origin: Welsh - Derived from the Welsh elements 'mer' meaning 'sea' and 'iel' which is often associated with brightness or radiance.

Interesting Facts

  • Meriel is a name that has deep roots in Welsh culture and has been used since the Middle Ages, often found in medieval literature and poetry.
  • While primarily associated with Welsh heritage, Meriel has been adopted in various cultures and can be found in different forms across Europe.
  • Notable figures with the name include Meriel, the character in the medieval Welsh romance 'Geraint and Enid', showcasing its literary significance.
  • Although not extremely common, Meriel has seen a small rise in popularity in the 21st century as parents seek unique names with cultural significance.
  • Variations of the name include Muriel and Mariel, with Muriel being more common in English-speaking countries, while Mariel can be found in both English and Spanish-speaking regions.