Origin
Derived from the French name 'Odette', which itself originates from the Old Germanic name 'Oda', meaning 'wealth, fortune'. The name 'Odele' or 'Odelle' is a modern variation, often created as a feminine form with gentle phonetic appeal. The original 'Odette' was popularised in the French ballet 'Swan Lake' and has since been adopted internationally, including in Australia. The name does not have specific Aboriginal or Māori roots.
Meaning
Literally translating to 'wealth' or 'fortune' from Old Germanic origins. In the Australian context, it carries connotations of elegance and uniqueness, often associated with a sense of grace and prosperity.
Pronunciation
/oˈdɛl/ (oh-DEL), with emphasis on the second syllable. Australian pronunciation tends to preserve the French elegance, with subtle vowel shifts depending on regional accents.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Odetta
- Odette
- Odella
- Odele
Nicknames
- Odi
- Dellie
- Ode
Name Days
- 31 December (New Year's Eve celebratory significance, marking new beginnings)
- Odele Day (not officially observed, but occasionally used in creative or cultural festivals) in some Welsh or French-influenced settings. In Australia, no formal widely recognised name days exist for this name.
- Māori women with names similar to Odelle might celebrate on Matariki (around June-July), a time of gathering, prosperity, and new beginnings.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with odelle:
- Charlotte and Odelle
- Isla and Odelle
- Sophie and Odelle
Fun Facts
- The name Odette gained popularity in Australia following the release of Tchaikovsky's ballet 'Swan Lake', featuring the tragic character Odette.
- In Australian fiction, characters named Odelle are often portrayed as artistic, graceful, and independent, reflecting the elegance associated with the name.
- While not among the top names nationally, Odelle maintains niche popularity in creative or artsy communities within Australia.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name odelle:
- Elegant
- Creative
- Graceful
- Intelligent
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a soft, flowing visual appeal, with symmetrical spelling and a gentle phonetic rhythm that suits various modern and vintage styling trends.
Geographical Distribution
Moderately common in artsy and urban communities across New South Wales and Victoria, less prevalent in rural and traditionally conservative regions. More popular among families with European heritage or those seeking an elegant, vintage-inspired name.
Numerological Significance
Name number 3, associated with creativity, communication, and optimism. Often viewed as a positive influence for artistic or expressive talents in astrology.
Astrological Connections
Linked to the Moon (Cancer), suggesting sensitivity, empathy, and nurturing qualities preferred by those born under this sign—particularly relevant in Australian astrology communities.
Historical Context
The name gained cultural prominence through the ballet 'Swan Lake', with Odette being a central character symbolising grace and tragedy. Several Australian artists, writers, and performers have adopted the name, contributing to its cultural cachet.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts minorly across languages, often under the forms 'Odetta' or 'Odette'. It is easily pronounced in most European languages and retains its charm in English.
Famous People Named odelle
- Odette Annable (Actress)
- Odette Yustman (Actress)
- Odelle Ball (Australian painter)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2017 | 1 |