Jonelle is a name of French origin, derived from the Occitan word "Johanella," which means "God is merciful." It is a variant spelling of Johannel, another French name with the same meaning.
The name Jonelle has a rich history dating back to medieval France. It was often used as a female given name in the Occitan region, which is now part of southern France and Monaco. During this time, names were chosen based on their meanings and religious significance, so it's possible that Jonelle was given to girls whose families wished them to grow up with mercy and compassion.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Jonelle. One such figure is Jonelle Matthews, an American child who disappeared in 1984. Despite the sad circumstances surrounding her disappearance, Matthews' name has become synonymous with hope and resilience in her community.
Today, Jonelle remains a unique and distinctive name choice for girls. Its French origins give it a sophisticated European flair while its meaning adds depth and warmth to the moniker. Whether you're looking for a name that stands out or one with deep historical roots, Jonelle is an excellent choice.
The name Jonelle has seen a varied number of births in the United States over the years, with trends fluctuating across different decades. In the early to mid-1900s, the name's popularity was relatively low, with fewer than 20 births per year between 1923 and 1945.
However, starting from the late 1940s, there was a significant increase in the number of babies named Jonelle. Between 1947 and 1956, the annual births ranged from 19 to 44, indicating a growing trend. The name's popularity peaked during the mid-1960s to late 1970s, with the highest numbers recorded in 1975 (79 births), 1976 (75 births), and 1977 (84 births). This period marked a significant rise in the popularity of the name Jonelle.
From the early 1980s onwards, there was a noticeable decrease in the number of babies named Jonelle. The annual births fluctuated between 46 and 137 until the mid-1990s, after which they began to decline further. Between 2000 and 2023, the name's popularity continued to decrease, with fewer than 25 births per year recorded in most years.
Overall, despite fluctuations in its popularity over time, Jonelle has been a relatively uncommon name throughout its history in the United States. As of 2023, there have been a total of 3223 babies named Jonelle born in the US since 1923.