Ferrel is of Old French origin, derived from the word 'fer' meaning 'iron'. This name was likely brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066. It was traditionally a surname, but has been adopted as a given name in some instances. The name Ferrel is believed to have originated from one of two sources: it could be a variant spelling of Ferrall or Ferrell, surnames derived from places named 'Ferry' or 'Ferrie', which referred to settlements located near a river crossing or ferry point. Alternatively, Ferrel may also be a diminutive form of the Latin name Ferrandus, which means 'strong'. The name has not been extensively used as a given name in recent times, making it quite unique today.
"Ferrel experienced a peak in popularity around the mid-1920s with notable years being 1922 (15 births) and 1923 (19 births). Afterward, it maintained modest popularity until the early 1940s. However, from 1947 onwards, its usage significantly declined."