What Does 'Noel' Mean, Exactly?
Noel
When we think of Christmas, certain words come to mind that go along with the holiday season. "Peace," "joy," "Yuletide" and "nativity" are a few of the words that can remind us of what the season is all about. "Noel" is another one. And while we know the word relates to Christmas, many of us may not know what it actually means.
Christmas is such a joyous time filled with yummy treats, shimmering decorations and plenty of caroling or listening to our favorite Christmas songs. Speaking of carols and songs, many of us are familiar with the tune "The First Noel." We sing the words and enjoy the tune but what is Noel's meaning, exactly?
Besides hearing the word in a song, we also see the word on Christmas decorations or even in Hallmark movie titles like Joyeux Noel. This term is prominent during the holidays and there is very good reason. To shed some light on the word, so that you can use it with authority, we'll explain what Noel means and where it originated.
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Where Did the Term 'Noel' Originate?
Our modern English word "Noel" is derived from the Middle English word, nowel and means "a shout of joy or Christmas song." However, the root of the word is actually French, meaning "Christmas season" which was derived from the Latin word natalis which means "birth." In the biblical book of Ecclesiastes, the birth of Jesus is called natalis.
When we look at the first line from the song "The First Noel," it appears that the meaning of Noel could have come from the French word nouvelles which means "news." That first line states, "The first noel the angels did say."
The angels were bringing good news of the birth of Christ which combines all of the derivatives of the word.
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Meaning of Noel
To put it simply, the word "Noel" means Christmas. However, when "noel" is not capitalized it means, "a Christmas carol." It's spreading the news of Jesus' birth by joyful song. When we say, "Merry Christmas," we could also be saying "Merry Noel." In fact, in French, Joyeux Noel means "Merry Christmas."
Noel Is a Popular Baby Name
Because Noel is derived from the Latin word natalis meaning "birth," it is also a popular baby name. The name has been popular for both boys and girls since the beginning of the 19th century. However, now there are some variations to the name that are more commonly used. Here are some variations of Noel and where they originate from.
Nael (Old French)
Natal (Spanish)
Natale (Spanish and French)
Noele (French)
Noell (French)
Noelle (French)
Nollaig (Irish)
Nowel (French)
Nowell (English)
Next Up: How To Say ‘Merry Christmas’ in 26 Different Languages
