The name Ethel is a German baby name. In German the meaning of the name Ethel is: noble. Hebrew Meaning: The name Ethel is a Hebrew baby name. In Hebrew the meaning of the name Ethel is: noble.Teutonic Meaning: The name Ethel is a Teutonic baby name. In Teutonic the meaning of the name Ethel is: noble.he name Ethel is an English baby name. In English the meaning of the name Ethel is: From Aethelind, the Old English name meaning noble snake. Diminutive of Etheldreda, from the Old English name Aethelthryth, meaning noble and strength. Diminutive of Eldreda from Alfred, meaning old counsel, or sage.