Adele: a female name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal".It derives from the Germanic word "*aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Adele, drawn to its Germanic heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Adele
Quick facts about Adele
Origin
Germanic
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
*aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA
How to Pronounce Adele
Adele is pronounced /əˈdɛl/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ad-el-e
Say it like: "OOHDEHL"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Adele enjoys international appeal, used in 10 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, basque, french, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
Adele means "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.". The name comes from *aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Adele for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Adele's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Adele?
Adele is a germanic name. The name traces back to *aþalaz > adal > æthel > ADELA. From its germanic roots, Adele spread to become common in english, basque, french, italian and other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Adele a boy or girl name?
Adele is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In germanic tradition, Adele has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Adele?
Adele is pronounced "/əˈdɛl/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Adele is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, basque, french, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Adele can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Adele?
Adele is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Adele offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Adele's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Adele holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Adele commonly used?
Adele spans multiple cultures, including english, basque, french, and 7 other traditions. Though germanic in origin, Adele found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Adele, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Old High German element “adal” (Ancient Germanic: *aþalaz; Old English: æthel), meaning “noble,” native German short form of names containing the name element “adal.” The name is also directly linked to the names Adelaide, Adelheid, Adelaida. Saint Adela was one of two princesses, the daughters of Saint Dagobert II. Adela was married and had a child by her husband, Alberic. Alberic died within a few years of the marriage. Despite multiple marriage offers, she chose to take up holy orders. Saint Adelina († 1125) was a French Benedictine nun honored as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Adele into their naming traditions. A child named Adele will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Adele is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.