Armel is a unique and distinctive given name of Breton origin. It is derived from the Breton word "ar" meaning "the" and "mell" which means "honey." Therefore, Armel literally translates to "the honey," suggesting sweetness and warmth.
The name Armel has a rich history in Brittany, a region in northwest France known for its Celtic roots and unique cultural heritage. It is believed that the name gained popularity during the Middle Ages when many Breton saints were named Armel or variations thereof. One of the most notable figures was Saint Armel, a 7th-century bishop who was venerated as a saint in Brittany.
Throughout history, the name Armel has been associated with individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and society at large. For instance, Armel Le Cléac'h is a French sailor known for his impressive performances in solo sailing races, while Armel Heliot is a Breton musician who has helped preserve and promote Breton music traditions.
Today, Armel remains a beloved name in Brittany and beyond, chosen by parents who appreciate its unique sound and rich history. It continues to be passed down through generations as a symbol of Breton heritage and culture. Although it may not be as widely recognized internationally as some other names, those who bear the name Armel carry with them a sense of pride and connection to their Celtic roots.
The name Armel has seen a varied level of popularity over the years in the United States. In terms of annual births, the name first appeared in significant numbers between 1915 and 1922, with five births each year during this period except for 1922 which saw nine births.
After a gap of around four decades, the name Armel began to gain traction again in the late 1970s and early 1980s. There were five births each year from 1973 to 1978, with an increase to nine births in 1985.
The peak of popularity for the name Armel was reached in the mid-2000s, with eleven births recorded in both 2004 and 2015. This period also saw a notable spike in popularity around the turn of the century, with eight births recorded each year from 2000 to 2003.
The most recent data available shows that the name Armel has maintained a consistent level of popularity in recent years, with seven births recorded in both 2018 and 2022, and thirteen births recorded in 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 254 births for the name Armel in the United States since records began.