US Popularity Rank: 15525

Origin: German

Meaning: Dark battle

Grisel is a feminine name inspired by Griselda, a famous German folklore figure. In the story, Griselda’s husband tests her fidelity and obedience three times. He does so by asking her to give up their children so that they would be put to death. She agrees each time. Then he tells her he’s leaving her for another woman. Griselda again accepts her fate with dignity. At this, he reveals he was testing her and surprises her with her children, who had been alive all along. So though Grisel means “dark battle,” her story serves as a reminder that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.