All about the name

Wydell

Female

« Wydell is an American name created by author Zora Neale Hurston for her novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God." Its meaning remains unknown, but some believe it's a blend of other names or inspired by place names. Despite its unclear origin and meaning, Wydell has gained recognition as a unique and memorable name with cultural significance in African American literature. »

#61138 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Wydell is a unique and distinctive name of American origin. It is believed to have been coined by the author Zora Neale Hurston in her novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God," published in 1937. In the story, Wydell is the last name of the character Johnnie Mae, who is portrayed as a woman with great inner strength and resilience. The meaning behind the name Wydell remains unclear, as it was not derived from any known source but was instead created by Hurston for her literary work. However, some people have suggested that the name may be a blend of two other names, such as "Willa" and "Della," or that it could be inspired by places in America with similar-sounding names. Despite its unclear origin and meaning, Wydell has gained recognition as a unique and memorable name. It has been used sparingly throughout the years but has seen some popularity in recent decades, particularly among African American families paying homage to Hurston's literary legacy. In terms of history, Wydell does not have any significant historical figures or events associated with it. However, its connection to Zora Neale Hurston and her influential novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God" has made it a name of cultural significance in African American literature. Overall, Wydell is an uncommon but striking name that stands out due to its unique sound and its association with the notable work of Zora Neale Hurston. While its meaning may remain unclear, its distinctive nature makes it a memorable choice for those looking for something different.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Wydell since 1880

Total births
5
Total since 1880
Peak year
1931
5 births
in 1931
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years