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Abel Boy

Popularity: #209 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationAY-buhl / /ˈeɪ.bəl/

Hebrew; Latin

Meaning

Hebrew: 'breath' or 'vapor'; Latin: 'noble'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Abel has its roots in the Hebrew language, derived from the word "hevel," which means "breath" or "vapor." This etymology reflects a transient quality, suggesting the fleeting nature of life. The name appears in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Genesis, where Abel is introduced as the second son of Adam and Eve. His story, which culminates in his murder by his brother Cain, has been a significant narrative in Judeo-Christian traditions, symbolizing innocence and the consequences of jealousy and sin. The name Abel was subsequently adopted into Greek as "Abel" (Ἄβελ) and later into Latin, maintaining its form as it transitioned into Old French before entering the English lexicon in the Middle Ages.

Throughout history, Abel has been associated with various cultural and religious contexts. In Christian theology, Abel is often viewed as a martyr and a symbol of righteousness, contrasting with Cain's actions. The story of Abel has been referenced in numerous religious texts and artistic works, reinforcing its moral and ethical implications. The name's enduring presence in literature and religious discourse highlights its significance, particularly during the Renaissance when biblical names gained renewed interest.

In addition to its biblical roots, the name Abel has also been embraced in various cultures, often carrying connotations of virtue and moral integrity. In some traditions, it is associated with pastoral life, reflecting the character of Abel as a shepherd. The diminutive form "Ab" has also been noted in some cultures, although it is less commonly used. Overall, the name Abel encapsulates themes of innocence, sacrifice, and the complexities of human relationships, ensuring its place in historical and cultural narratives.

Trend Summary

Abel has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States over the past decade.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Abelard
  • Abelino

International Variants

  • Abel (Spanish)
  • Abel (Portuguese)
  • Abel (French)
  • Abel (Dutch)

Famous people named Abel

Abel Tesfaye is a singer and songwriter best known for his albums Starboy, After Hours, and Dawn FM.

Abel Ferrara is a filmmaker best known for Bad Lieutenant, King of New York, and The Addiction.

Fictional characters named Abel

Abel is a fictional character from the video game series Castlevania. He is a member of the Belmont clan and plays a significant role in the ongoing battle against Dracula.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Abel was first seen in the United States in 1880. Abel has ranked as high as #213 nationally, which occurred in 2015, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Illinois, Arizona, and New York. In the past 5 years the name Abel has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Abel (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 272
18%
TX 250
16%
FL 78
5%
NC 64
4%
NY 63
4%
AZ 56
4%
OH 51
3%
GA 47
3%
IL 46
3%
TN 43
3%
MI 39
3%
WA 39
3%
MO 37
2%
PA 28
2%
IN 27
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18809
188112
188210
188312
188414
18856
188616
188711
18888
18899
189014
189110
18928
189313
189415
18956
189615
189712
189810
189915
190015
190113
190211
190314
190410
19056
190611
190710
190815
190916
191011
191130
191240
191348
191451
191564
191662
191786
191876
191991
192079
192184
192291
192373
1924110
192583
1926101
192779
192885
192996
1930122
193193
193295
193396
193493
193592
193675
193791
193887
193995
1940101
1941121
1942105
194392
1944118
1945113
1946117
1947146
1948151
1949161
1950170
1951183
1952162
1953217
1954223
1955215
1956215
1957236
1958241
1959226
1960247
1961281
1962258
1963272
1964274
1965282
1966256
1967251
1968267
1969277
1970283
1971310
1972321
1973360
1974330
1975382
1976395
1977347
1978371
1979428
1980474
1981479
1982468
1983426
1984427
1985461
1986482
1987458
1988514
1989541
1990606
1991623
1992631
1993620
1994584
1995717
1996606
1997718
1998668
1999711
2000763
2001733
2002775
2003755
2004791
2005855
2006924
2007940
2008864
2009964
20101,127
20111,508
20121,951
20132,238
20142,572
20153,244
20163,044
20172,712
20182,682
20192,467
20202,130
20211,954
20221,766
20231,653
20241,627