Abel

♂ Boy

Pronounced AY-bul /ˈeɪ.bəl/High

Meaning: Breath; vapor; son; from Hebrew Hevel (Abel), meaning breath or vanityHigh

In 30 seconds: The Hebrew name meaning 'breath' or 'vapor,' borne by the second son of Adam and Eve in Genesis. Its brevity and biblical depth make it a quietly powerful choice.

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Origin HighHebrew

MeaningBreath; vapor; son; from Hebrew Hevel (Abel), meaning breath or vanity

Peak year2015

Total births (all-time)≈ 50,123

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Abel derives from the Hebrew הֶבֶל (Hevel), meaning 'breath,' 'vapor,' or 'vanity.' In the Book of Genesis, Abel was the second son of Adam and Eve, a shepherd who was killed by his brother Cain — making him the first murder victim in the Bible. The name is interpreted by some scholars as symbolizing the transience of human life.

Abel has been used in the English-speaking world since the Puritan era, though it remained uncommon for much of the 20th century. In the 21st century it has risen as part of the broader interest in short, strong Old Testament names. It entered the U.S. top 200 boys' names in the 2010s.

Did you know? In the Book of Ecclesiastes, the Hebrew word hevel (the same root as Abel) is translated 'vanity' — 'vanity of vanities, all is vanity' — lending the name a philosophical and poetic dimension.

Variations

AvelAbell

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

★Abel Tasman (1603–1659)
Dutch explorer, the first European to reach New Zealand and Tasmania (named after him).

If you like Abel…

Eli— short, powerful Hebrew Old Testament name on the same revival wave

Caleb— Old Testament Hebrew name equally popular in contemporary America

Frequently Asked

What does the name Abel mean?

Abel means 'breath' or 'vapor' from Hebrew hevel. In Genesis, Abel was the second son of Adam and Eve.

How do you pronounce Abel?

Abel is pronounced AY-bul (/ˈeɪ.bəl/) — two syllables with stress on the first.

Is Abel a boy or girl name?

Abel is used almost exclusively as a boy's name.

How popular is Abel?

Abel has been climbing the U.S. charts in the 2010s and is now in the top 200 boys' names.