Abel

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Abel

Abel is a Hebrew boy name, which has 4 letters.

Abel is a Biblical name derived from the Hebrew name Hevel, meaning "breath, vapour, or vanity". It has come to be associated with the biblical story of Abel, the son of Adam and Eve, who was slain by his brother Cain.

Alternate Meaning Breath

Origin or Current Usage Hebrew

Gender M

Rating

Be the first one to vote!

Log in to save this name to your favorites.

Detailed Information About The Name Abel

The name 'Abel' has its origins in the Hebrew language and is derived from the word 'hevel', which means 'breath' or 'vapor'. In the Bible, Abel is known as the second son of Adam and Eve and is famous for being the victim of the first recorded murder when his brother Cain killed him out of jealousy. As a result, Abel is often regarded as a symbol of innocence and martyrdom.

Throughout history, the name 'Abel' has been used in various cultures and languages. In English-speaking countries, it was popularized after the Protestant Reformation and has remained a relatively common name ever since. The name has also appeared in literature and arts, often representing kindness, gentleness, and purity.

Abel has several variations and forms in different languages. For instance, in French, it is spelled 'Abèle', and in Spanish, it is 'Abelardo'. These variations highlight the name's adaptability and widespread usage.

Today, the name 'Abel' continues to be popular globally. It is often chosen for its biblical connections, its simplicity, and its timeless appeal. The name has also gained recognition through notable individuals who bear it. One famous example is the Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, who named the protagonist of his play 'Hedda Gabler' as Abel Tesman, emphasizing the character's morality and vulnerability.

In conclusion, the name 'Abel' has a rich history and meaning associated with it. Its biblical origins and representation of innocence and martyrdom make it a powerful choice for parents seeking a name with depth and symbolism. Moreover, its widespread usage in different cultures throughout history demonstrates its enduring popularity.

Similar Hebrew Baby Names

Search Baby Names & Meanings

Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!

Celebrity Baby Names

Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.

Celebrity Baby Names

Naming Your Baby

Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.

Naming Your Baby

Unusual Baby Names

Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.

Unusual Baby Names

Biblical Baby Names

Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!

Biblical Baby Names

Types of Baby Names

The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.

Types of Baby Names