Michelle is a female given name of French origin, derived from the Old French word "Michel," which means "who is like God?" The name is a feminine form of Michael, a popular biblical name that has been used for centuries.
The name Michelle first gained popularity in France during the Middle Ages and was typically given to girls born into Catholic families. It was often chosen as a tribute to Saint Michel, the archangel who plays a prominent role in Christian tradition.
Over time, the name Michelle spread beyond France and became popular in other European countries, as well as in North America. In some cultures, it is still seen as a more traditional or formal name, while in others, it has become more commonplace.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Michelle, including American actresses Michelle Pfeiffer and Michelle Williams, French singer Michelle Torr, and former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama. Despite its roots in France, today, the name Michelle is recognized and used worldwide.
In terms of its meaning, the name Michelle carries a strong spiritual connotation due to its association with Saint Michel. However, it also signifies strength, courage, and leadership, as these are qualities often attributed to the archangel Michael. Ultimately, the significance of the name may vary depending on cultural context and personal interpretation.
The data provided shows the annual number of births with the name Michelle in the United States from 1946 to 2023. Over this period, there has been a significant fluctuation in the popularity of the name.
In the early years, the number of babies named Michelle was relatively low, ranging from 5 to 23 births per year between 1946 and 1954. However, starting in 1957, there was a notable increase in the popularity of the name, with over 40 births per year for the next two decades.
The peak of Michelle's popularity was reached in 1967, with 273 babies named Michelle that year. This trend continued through the early 1970s, with around 250 to 300 babies named Michelle each year.
However, starting in the mid-1970s, there was a gradual decrease in the popularity of the name Michelle. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the number of babies named Michelle had fallen below 100 per year.
This downward trend continued into the 21st century, with fewer than 50 babies named Michelle each year from 2004 onwards. In recent years, the popularity of the name has remained relatively low, with around 5 to 12 births per year since 2015.
In total, over this 77-year period, there were 6978 babies named Michelle in the United States. While the name was once very popular, especially during the mid-20th century, its popularity has declined significantly in recent decades.