Farrel is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "O'Farrell," which is believed to have been borne by a family who were hereditary poets and historians in ancient Ireland.
The meaning behind the name Farrel is not explicitly clear, as it is not a common given name. However, some sources suggest that it may be derived from the Irish word "fearghail," which means "man of peace." This interpretation would give the name Farrel the meaning of "peaceful man."
The history of the name Farrel is intertwined with the O'Farrell family, who were an important and influential clan in Ireland during the Middle Ages. The family was known for their scholarly pursuits and their service to the Irish chieftains as poets and historians.
Today, Farrel is a rare given name that is still primarily associated with Irish culture and heritage. While it may not be as popular as some other Irish names, such as Patrick or Seamus, those who bear the name Farrel can take pride in its unique history and distinctive meaning.
The name Farrel has been used consistently but sparingly in the United States over the past century. According to birth records from Social Security Administration data, there were five babies named Farrel each year between 1917 and 1921. There was a brief gap in usage during the late 1920s and early 1930s, but it reemerged with six births recorded annually from 1939 to 1943.
Throughout this period, Farrel maintained a steady but modest popularity, with a total of 38 babies receiving the name across these years. Despite its rarity compared to more common names like John or James, Farrel has persisted as a unique choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet timeless name for their child.