Noel

How to say it

noʊˈɛl

What it means

French for 'Christmas,' from the Latin natalis, 'birth' (the birth of Christ).

Noel is the French word for Christmas, from the Latin natalis dies, the 'birthday' of Christ. Long given to children born around the holiday, it works for boys and girls, with Noelle the feminine. Oasis songwriter Noel Gallagher is a well-known bearer. Festive and warm. Said noh-EL.

How to spell Noel

The standard spelling is Noel. Common variants include Noël, Nowell, Noe, but Noel is the most widely used form.

Heads-up notes

• Spelling

  French for Christmas; feminine form Noelle.

• Pop culture

  Musician Noel Gallagher of Oasis.

Who's worn it

Historical figures, characters, and public faces who share the name. The cultural surface, for whatever weight you want to give it.

• Noel Gallagher English musician and songwriter, co-founder of the rock band Oasis

Spelling variants

• Noël
• Nowell
• Noe

Names with the same feeling

• Emmanuel God with us
• Gabriel God is my strength
• Joel Yahweh is God
• Ezra Help, helper
• Felix Lucky, fortunate

See Noel from another angle

Common questions

What does the name Noel mean?

French for 'Christmas,' from the Latin natalis, 'birth' (the birth of Christ).

What does Noel mean in French?

In French, Noel means "Christmas, Nativity." Noel is the French word for Christmas, from the Latin natalis dies, the 'birthday' of Christ. Long given to children born around the holiday, it works for boys and girls, with Noelle the feminine. Oasis songwriter Noel Gallagher is a well-known bearer. Festive and warm. Said noh-EL.

How do you pronounce Noel?

Noel is pronounced noʊˈɛl. Say it as no-EL, with the stress on the "el" syllable.

How do you spell Noel?

The standard spelling is Noel. Common spelling variants include Noël, Nowell, Noe.

Is Noel a boy or girl name?

Noel is traditionally a masculine name.

How popular is the name Noel?

Noel ranked #478 in the U.S. in 2025, according to Social Security Administration data.