Grethel is a feminine given name of German origin. It is derived from the Germanic elements "grōd" meaning "grow" or "sprout", and "hild" meaning "battle". Therefore, Grethel can be interpreted as "strong in battle" or "peaceful warrior".
The name Grethel has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. It was particularly popular in Germany during this period, where it was often given to girls born into noble families. Over time, however, the name became less common and is now considered quite rare.
Despite its rarity, Grethel remains an attractive and unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their daughter. Its meaning adds depth and strength to the name, while its German origins give it a touch of European elegance. Moreover, Grethel's historical significance makes it a great option for those interested in genealogy or history.
In literature, Grethel is perhaps best known as one of the two main characters in the Brothers Grimm fairy tale "Hansel and Gretel". However, it is important to note that this story does not reflect the typical characteristics or experiences associated with people named Grethel. Instead, parents may choose this name simply for its unique sound, its historic significance, or its strong meaning.
In summary, Grethel is a rare but beautiful feminine given name of German origin. Its meaning adds depth and strength to the name, while its historical significance makes it an attractive choice for parents looking for something distinctive for their daughter. Although it may not be widely known today, Grethel's rich history and unique sound make it a memorable and appealing option.
The name Grethel has a fascinating history of usage in the United States, as indicated by these birth statistics from 1904 to 2023.
The first notable peak in popularity occurred between 1913 and 1917, with a high of 17 births in 1917. This suggests that Grethel was quite popular during this period, with an average of around 15 births per year.
However, the name's usage declined significantly after 1920, with fewer than 10 births recorded each year until 1946. There was a brief resurgence in the mid-1940s, but Grethel remained relatively uncommon throughout the remainder of the century, with an average of around 5 births per year from 1947 to 1992.
In recent years, Grethel has seen a notable increase in popularity. From 2005 onwards, there have been at least 6 births each year, with peaks of 15 in 2011 and 16 in both 2020 and 2023. This suggests that the name is experiencing something of a revival among parents today.
In total, there have been 615 babies named Grethel born in the United States between 1904 and 2023, according to these statistics. While the name's popularity has fluctuated over time, it appears that Grethel continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its unique sound and meaning.