Zyel is a unique and captivating name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "Tzila," which means "shadow" or "darkness." The name Zyel is believed to have been brought into prominence by the famous author, C.S. Lewis, who used it as a character in his classic series, "The Chronicles of Narnia."
In these books, Zyel is portrayed as one of the seven dwarves in the mythical realm of Narnia. She is described as having dark hair and being shy by nature. Despite her timidity, she possesses great inner strength and courage, which ultimately helps her save the kingdom from danger.
The name Zyel has gained popularity over the years due to its association with this iconic literary figure. Parents have been drawn to it because of its unique sound and rich history. While it may not be as common as some other names, those who choose Zyel for their child are likely doing so because they appreciate its rarity and its connection to a beloved piece of literature.
In terms of pronunciation, Zyel is typically pronounced "ZEE-el," with the emphasis on the first syllable. It has a rhythmic and musical quality that makes it pleasing to the ear.
Overall, Zyel is an intriguing name with a fascinating history behind it. Those who bear this name can take pride in knowing they share their name with a brave and beloved character from one of literature's most cherished series.
The name Zyel has had a variable but steadily increasing presence in the United States over the past two decades. Between 2007 and 2023, there have been a total of 80 babies born with this unique name.
From 2007 to 2014, the number of births per year hovered around 5 or 7, suggesting that while Zyel was not yet widely popular, it was being chosen by some parents looking for something distinctive. The years 2016 and 2017 saw another dip in popularity with only 5 births each year.
However, beginning in 2018, there has been a notable uptick in the number of newborns named Zyel. From that year forward, the birth count ranged from 7 to 9 per year. This trend suggests that the name Zyel may be gaining traction and becoming more accepted among parents seeking uncommon names for their children.
In summary, while Zyel has not been one of the most popular names in the U.S., it has maintained a consistent presence over time, with an increasing number of births in recent years indicating a growing interest in this distinctive moniker.