Baby Name Studio

Girl Name · English Origin

Ethel

Top 250 · 5 letters · Noble

Last reviewed: June 2026

Ethel is a girl baby name of English origin, meaning "Noble". It currently sits in the Top 250 tier of US baby names for 2026, and parents who love Ethel often also consider Eathel.

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Frequently asked about Ethel

What does the name Ethel mean?

Ethel means "Noble" and is of English origin.

What is the origin of Ethel?

Ethel originates in English naming tradition. Names of English origin often share recognizable sounds and cultural roots that shape how the name reads today.

How do you pronounce Ethel?

Ethel has 5 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable. Tap the pronunciation player on this page to hear it spoken aloud.

Is Ethel a boy's or girl's name?

Ethel is primarily used as a girl's name in US records, though usage can vary by region and era.

How popular is Ethel in 2026?

In our 2026 popularity tracker, Ethel sits in the Top 250 tier — a popular favorite that still feels personal.

What names are similar to Ethel?

Names that share Ethel's sound and style include Eathel, Edsel, Estel, Ethelyn, Ethelene. Open the "Names like Ethel" rail on this page for the full list.