Rapunzel is a name that has captured the hearts of many, thanks in part to the beloved fairytale character with the same name. However, beyond its connection to the famous story, not many people know much about what this name means or where it comes from. In this article, we will explore the meaning of the name Rapunzel, its origins, and everything else there is to know about it.
What Does the Name Rapunzel Mean?
The meaning of the name Rapunzel is often associated with the German word “rapunzeln,” which refers to a type of vegetable similar to a turnip or radish. It is believed that the name was inspired by the vegetable’s long, slender shape, which is comparable to the length of Rapunzel’s hair in the fairytale. Therefore, the name Rapunzel can be interpreted as “little radish” or “little turnip.”
The Origins of the Name Rapunzel
The name Rapunzel first gained popularity through the German fairytale “Rapunzel,” written by the Brothers Grimm in 1812. In the story, Rapunzel is a beautiful young girl who is held captive in a tower by an evil witch. Her long hair becomes the only way for her prince to reach her, as he climbs up her hair to rescue her. The tale has since become a classic and has been adapted into various forms of media, including movies, books, and even a popular Disney film.
However, the name itself has a more complicated history. While the Brothers Grimm certainly helped popularize the name with their fairytale, the origin of the name is not entirely clear. Some scholars believe that it may have been derived from the Italian name Rapunzo, while others claim that it was inspired by the French word “raponchon,” meaning “little bell.” Regardless of its origins, the name has become synonymous with the fairytale character and has gained a life of its own.
Famous People Named Rapunzel
As an uncommon name, there are not many famous people named Rapunzel. However, there are a few notable individuals who have borne this unique moniker. One of them is Rapunzel Jacobson, an American artist and educator known for her work with glass and metal. Another is Rapunzel Lizardo, a Filipino beauty queen who was crowned Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International in 2018. Additionally, there are several fictional characters with the name Rapunzel, including the Disney Princess from the movie Tangled.
Variations of the Name Rapunzel
While Rapunzel may be a rare name, there are still variations of it that exist. The most common variation is probably Rapunzie, which simply shortens the name while keeping the same basic sound and structure. Other variations include Rapunzella, Rapunzelina, and Rapunzana. These names may not be as well-known as Rapunzel itself, but they still carry a sense of uniqueness and charm.
Popularity of the Name Rapunzel
As a name, Rapunzel is not very popular. In fact, it is quite rare and is not even listed among the top 1000 baby girl names in the United States or the United Kingdom. However, this does not mean that the name is entirely unheard of. There are still parents who choose to name their children Rapunzel, often inspired by the fairytale or simply because they like the sound of the name.
Using the Name Rapunzel in Popular Culture
Thanks to the popularity of the fairytale character, the name Rapunzel has been used in various forms of media over the years. In addition to the Disney movie Tangled, there have been numerous books, movies, and TV shows that feature characters named Rapunzel. Additionally, the name has also been used in music, with artists like Dave Matthews Band and Devendra Banhart releasing songs with the title “Rapunzel.”
Conclusion
The name Rapunzel may not be common, but it is certainly memorable. Whether you are a fan of the fairytale or simply appreciate its unique sound and meaning, there is no denying the charm and allure of this one-of-a-kind name.
FAQs
1. Is Rapunzel a popular name?
No, Rapunzel is not a popular name. It is quite rare and is not even listed among the top 1000 baby girl names in the United States or the United Kingdom.
2. What does the name Rapunzel mean?
The name Rapunzel is often associated with the German word “rapunzeln,” which refers to a type of vegetable similar to a turnip or radish. Therefore, the name can be interpreted as “little radish”or “little turnip.”
3. Where did the name Rapunzel come from?
The origins of the name Rapunzel are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been derived from either the Italian name Rapunzo or the French word “raponchon,” meaning “little bell.” The name gained popularity through the German fairytale “Rapunzel,” written by the Brothers Grimm in 1812.
4. Are there any famous people named Rapunzel?
While it is a rare name, there are a few notable individuals who have borne the name Rapunzel. These include American artist and educator Rapunzel Jacobson and Filipino beauty queen Rapunzel Lizardo.
5. What are some variations of the name Rapunzel?
Some variations of the name Rapunzel include Rapunzie, Rapunzella, Rapunzelina, and Rapunzana. These names may not be as well-known as Rapunzel itself, but they still carry a sense of uniqueness and charm.## Stop Article
In conclusion, the name Rapunzel may be uncommon, but it is certainly a name that stands out. Whether you are a fan of the fairytale or simply appreciate its unique sound and meaning, there is no denying the charm and allure of this one-of-a-kind name. As we have explored in this article, the name Rapunzel has roots in Germanic and French cultures and can be interpreted as “little radish” or “little turnip.” While it may not be a popular name, it has been used in various forms of media over the years and continues to captivate audiences around the world.
FAQs
- Is Rapunzel a popular name?
No, Rapunzel is not a popular name. It is quite rare and is not even listed among the top 1000 baby girl names in the United States or the United Kingdom.
- What does the name Rapunzel mean?
The name Rapunzel is often associated with the German word “rapunzeln,” which refers to a type of vegetable similar to a turnip or radish. Therefore, the name can be interpreted as “little radish” or “little turnip.”
- Where did the name Rapunzel come from?
The origins of the name Rapunzel are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been derived from either the Italian name Rapunzo or the French word “raponchon,” meaning “little bell.” The name gained popularity through the German fairytale “Rapunzel,” written by the Brothers Grimm in 1812.
- Are there any famous people named Rapunzel?
While it is a rare name, there are a few notable individuals who have borne the name Rapunzel. These include American artist and educator Rapunzel Jacobson and Filipino beauty queen Rapunzel Lizardo.
- What are some variations of the name Rapunzel?
Some variations of the name Rapunzel include Rapunzie, Rapunzella, Rapunzelina, and Rapunzana. These names may not be as well-known as Rapunzel itself, but they still carry a sense of uniqueness and charm.

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.