Unknown; likely a modern variant of Terrell
The exact etymology of Terel is unclear, though it is widely considered a modern American spelling variant of the surname-turned-given-name Terrell. Terrell itself likely derives from a Norman French nickname meaning 'to pull,' possibly referring to a stubborn person or a driver of horses.
Fewer than 5 boys were named Terel in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).