Abel - Name Meaning and Origin

The boy's name Abel \a-bel\ is pronounced AY-bel. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "breath, vapour". From the Hebrew name Hevel, and the meaning implies vanity or worthlessness. The name may also derive from an Assyrian word meaning "meadow". Biblical: the second son of Adam and Eve. According to the Christian Church, he is a pre-Christian martyr and is invoked as a saint in the litany for the dying. The name has been in steady use since the sixth century, and is popular in Spain.

Abel has 8 variant forms: Abe, Abele, Abell, Abelson, Abey, Abie, Able and Avel.

For more information, see also the related name Abelard.

Baby names that sound like Abel are Abiel and Abyel.

Abel is a popular male first name and a very popular surname (source: 1990 U.S. Census). Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the boy's name Abel. Click here to compare Abel with related baby names.