Meaning, origin, history
Christabel is a unique and beautiful feminine given name of Cornish origin. It means "follower of Christ" in the Cornish language, derived from the elements "Krist" meaning "Christ" and "-fel" meaning "follower". The name is also associated with the legendary figure of Saint Justa, who was said to have brought Christianity to Cornwall.
The name Christabel gained prominence during the Middle Ages, particularly in Cornwall and other parts of Britain. It was often used as a feminine form of the male name Christopher, which means "bearer of Christ". However, over time, Christabel has evolved into a distinct and independent name in its own right.
One notable appearance of the name Christabel is in Samuel Taylor Coleridge's gothic poem "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" (1798). In this work, Christabel is the daughter of Sir Leoline, an ancient mariner who tells the tale of his supernatural experience. This literary reference has contributed to the enduring popularity and recognition of the name Christabel.
Today, Christabel remains a rare and distinctive given name, often chosen by parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughters. It is a name that carries a rich history and cultural significance, reflecting its Cornish origins and early Christian influences.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Christobel since 1880
Total births
37
Total since 1880
Peak year
1914
10 births
in 1919
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years