Grisel

Meaning of Grisel

Grisel, a feminine name derived from Medieval Latin Griselda and rooted in the Old High German grīs (“gray”) and hild (“battle”), conveys a sense of quiet fortitude. Associated with the steadfast heroine of Boccaccio’s Decameron and Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, it has enduring appeal in Spanish-speaking regions—pronounced GREE-sel (/ɡriˈsel/)—and in English contexts as GRIH-zuhl (/ˈɡrɪ.zl̩/). Though it has never ranked among the most common names in the United States, Grisel peaked at rank 589 in 1984 and today hovers in the 900s, with fewer than ten annual registrations. Its modest use offers parents a name steeped in literary and historical depth, yet sufficiently rare to feel distinct, since she will likely be the only Grisel in her kindergarten class.

Pronunciation

Spanish

• Pronunced as GREE-sel (/ɡriˈsel/)

English

• Pronunced as GRIH-zuhl (/ˈɡrɪ.zl̩/)

• Griselda
• Griselle
• Grisell
• Gricel