MallowbyNames

Ruthel

ROO-thuhl · Meaning uncertain; likely a combination of Ruth and the popular -el suffix.

Peak popularity
1926
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Ruthel since 1915

Babies named Ruthel per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4711192019602000Most births 1926Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1910s21
1920s45
1930s53
1940s29
1950s5
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Ruthel is a rare feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1915, a period when creative compound names were fashionable. Its peak usage came in 1926, when it reached its highest recorded frequency. Since then, its trajectory has been stable but extremely sparse, with no recent resurgence. The name combines the classic Ruth with the -el suffix, perhaps inspired by names like Rachel or Esther, yet it never gained widespread adoption. Unlike names that have seen revivals, Ruthel remains a quiet presence in historical data, rarely appearing on modern lists. Its top states are not recorded due to its rarity, and it has no notable famous bearers in the public eye.

Ruthel appears to be a modern coinage combining the biblical name Ruth with the fashionable -el suffix, influenced by names like Rachel or Esther. The name Ruth means 'companion' or 'friend' in Hebrew, but the -el element does not carry its usual Hebrew meaning 'God' in this context. Ruthel first appeared in U.S. records in the early 20th century and saw modest use during the 1920s, peaking in 1926. It remains rare today.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Ruth, Ruthie

Sibling names for Ruthel

Names that share Ruthel's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

R is for Ruthel, our favorite little girl.

R is for Ruthel…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Ruthel's letter becomes Ruthel's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Ruthel's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Ruthel mean?
The meaning of Ruthel is uncertain. It is likely a modern blend of the name Ruth (meaning 'friend' or 'companion' in Hebrew) and the -el suffix, similar to other names of the era.
Is Ruthel a popular name today?
No, Ruthel is not currently popular. The latest data from 2025 shows it has no rank among the top names, and its peak usage was in 1926. It is a rare name.
Is Ruthel a boy or girl name?
Ruthel is typically used as a girl's name. It is a variant of the feminine name Ruth with an added suffix.