What Is the Meaning of the Name Michelle?

Michelle is a frequently used girl name. Learn more about the meaning of the name Michelle, along with its origin and popularity.

Fact checked by Sarah ScottFact checked by Sarah Scott

The meaning of the name Michelle is an anglicized version of the masculin French name Michel. Michel is derived from Michael, a Hebrew name introduced in the bible. The name Michelle means “who resembles God."

If you are a parent with a faith tradition, this name might have strong appeal. But you don't have to be religious to appreciate this versatile name.

Michelle has been around for almost a century and was an extremely popular choice for parents in the 1960s and 70s. So, not only are plenty of today's parents (and even some grandparents) named Michelle, but there are also many Michelles to be found on the big screen.

Who knows, maybe your Michelle will be the next Obama? But no matter who your Michelle turns out to be, your child will have a classic name to make all their own.

Related: 80 Cottagecore Names for Bucolic Babies



  • Origin: French/Hebrew

  • Gender: The name Michelle is most often given as a girl's name.

  • Pronunciation: Mish-ell





Although many baby names are separated by gender, Parents believes that sex does not need to play a role in your name selection process. It’s important to select a name that you feel suits your new baby the best.



How Popular Is the Name Michelle?

The name Michelle entered the top 1000 charts in 1938, in 963rd place. It gradually made its way up until 1954, when it reached the top 100.

From there, Michelle continued to rise in popularity. In 1966, it reached the top 10, where it remained until 1981.

Michelle's most popular years were 1968, 1969, 1971, and 1972, when it ranked second. In 2008, Michelle dropped out of the top 100. As of 2023, the name Michelle ranked 401st.

Name Variations

There are some variations of the name Michelle, including:

  • Machell (Hebrew, French)

  • Micheline (French)

  • Mychelle (French)

  • Mikaela (Swedish, Finnish)

  • Shelley (Old England)

Similar Names

Here are some names with a similar vibe to Michelle:

  • Ashley

  • Amanda

  • Charlotte

  • Claire

  • Danielle

  • Erica

  • Katelyn

  • Kathleen

  • Kirsten

  • Leanne

  • Maureen

  • Paula

  • Rachael

  • Sarah

  • Suzanne

Other French baby names to consider:

  • Anais

  • Avril

  • Camille

  • Collette

  • Chantelle

  • Chloe

  • Denise

  • Elodie

  • Fleur

  • Jeanne

  • Manon

  • Monique

  • Nicolette

  • Oceane

  • Yvonne

Other baby names that start with M:

  • Madison

  • Margot

  • Marla

  • Marlow

  • Martine

  • Maxine

  • Melissa

  • Melanie

  • Mila

  • Morgan

  • Monica

  • Montana

  • Manda

  • Myleen

  • Mya

Nicknames for Michelle

Common nicknames for Michelle include:

  • Chelle

  • Shell

  • Shelly

  • Mich

  • Mish

  • Mischa

Suggested Sibling Names for Michelle

Potential sibling names for Michelle could be:

  • Abigail

  • Adam

  • Bethany

  • Carter

  • Dani

  • Elliot

  • Frankie

  • Gigi

  • Harry

  • Isabella

  • Kate

  • Leo

  • Nicholas

  • Owen

  • Stephanie

  • Zoe

Famous People Named Michelle

Here’s a list of famous people who are also named Michelle:

  • Michelle Branch, an American singer

  • Michelle Borth, an American actor

  • Michelle Dockery, an English actor

  • Michelle Kwan, an American Olympic figure skater

  • Michelle Monaghan, an American actor

  • Michelle Obama, the Former First Lady of the United States

  • Michelle Pfieffer, an American actor

  • Michelle Rodriquez, an American actor

  • Michelle Williams, an American actor



More Baby Names

Still searching for the perfect baby name? Check out these related baby name lists for even more options:



For more Parents news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Parents.