The name Wendell is a girl's name of German origin meaning "to travel, to proceed".

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Old man's name just conceivable for a girl--makes a new spin on Wendy.

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Wendell

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The name Wendell peaked for girls at #1589 in 1940. Wendell is occasionally used for boys in 2024.

The name Wendell is a boy's name of German origin meaning "wanderer; to travel, to proceed".

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Names Ending in L for Boys

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Names that Peaked in 1940

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This name has hardly been used since Wendell Willkie ran for president in 1940, and it may not quite be ready for revival yet. Still, clunky grandpa names like Lionel, Douglas, Benedict, Carl, and Melvin have received more attention in recent years, so Wendell can't be ruled out just yet.
 
Wendell derives from the Dutch and German name, Wendel, which originates from the 5th century Germanic tribe, The Vandals, whose name could mean wanderer . Wendel became Wendell when it was brought over to America by the Dutch, and was notably borne by the 19th century poet Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. 
 
Well used in the US until the 60s, it last appeared in the Top 1000 in 1995. Recent years however have seen in creep back up in popularity very slightly, with 100 babies given the name in 2023. 
 
With the travel related meaning and clunky sounds, the name might well hold appeal, and a recent pop culture reference might increase that. Wendell Bambleby is a character in Heather Fawcett's popular book series, Emily Wilde who might bring new attention to the name.

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The name Wendell is currently ranked #858 in U.S. births. and peaked for boys at #114 in 1940. It is currently rising in popularity. The name is most popular in WENDELL, WENDELL, and WENDELL. Wendell is occasionally used for girls in 2019.

Wendell

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