Rochelle is a unique and elegant female name of French origin. It is derived from the French word "rochelle," which means "small rock" or "rocky." This name has a strong and enduring quality to it, much like the rocky formations it is named after.
The name Rochelle gained popularity in France during the Middle Ages and was often given to girls born into families of nobility. It was also used as a given name for girls born into families with ties to the church or who had religious vocations.
Over time, the name Rochelle spread beyond France and became popular in other European countries such as England, Germany, and Spain. Today, it is still considered a unique and distinctive name, but it is not as commonly used as some other female names.
Despite its relatively rare usage today, Rochelle has been carried by many notable women throughout history. One famous bearer of the name was Rochelle Udell, an American actress who appeared in several television shows and movies during the 1970s and 1980s.
In literature, the name Rochelle appears in the works of several prominent authors. In Gustave Flaubert's novel "Madame Bovary," the protagonist Emma Rouault is friends with a woman named Madame Rochelle. The name also appears in the works of Charles Dickens and Victor Hugo.
Overall, Rochelle is a beautiful and distinctive female name with a rich history and cultural significance. Its unique origin and meaning make it a memorable choice for parents looking to give their daughter a special name that stands out from the crowd.
The statistics for the name Rochelle in the United States from 1917 to 1975 show a varied pattern of usage over time. The highest number of births with this name occurred in 1970, with 7 newborn girls being named Rochelle that year. This is also one of only two years during this period where more than 6 babies were given the name Rochelle.
Interestingly, the majority of years listed show exactly 5 or 6 births for each year, suggesting a consistent but not overwhelming popularity for the name. The total number of births with the name Rochelle in the United States over these years is 92, indicating that while it may not have been one of the most common names during this time period, it was certainly used regularly.
It's also worth noting that there are some gaps in the data, as no births with the name Rochelle were recorded between 1940 and 1943, or between 1953 and 1956. This could indicate a decrease in popularity for the name during those years, though more comprehensive data would be needed to confirm this trend.
Overall, these statistics provide an interesting snapshot of how the name Rochelle was used in the United States during this time period. While it may not have been a top choice among parents, it was still given to many babies over these years and continues to be used today.