Isabel: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Isabel mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Spanish/Portuguese: Pledged to God; variation of Elizabeth
Hebrew: God is my oath; consecrated to God

Gender: Female

Syllables: 3

Pronunciation: The name Isabel is pronounced iz-uh-bel

The name Isabel is of Spanish origin, deriving from Elizabeth, with roots in Hebrew meaning "God is my oath". Historically, it has been a name of royalty, borne by queens of Castile and Portugal which has aided in its spread across Europe and the Americas.

Girl name variations

Family name origins & meanings

English, French, and Portuguese: from the female personal name Isabel (see Isbell). Isabel and Isabelle are documented as family names in Trois Rivières, Quebec, in 1648. Other families, from Normandy, France, are documented in Sainte-Famille, Quebec, in 1669.

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Angela Kinsey

Stanley Tucci

Isabel in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Isabel Evans from Roswell - A human/alien hybrid with healing and defensive powers.
Isabel Archer from The Portrait of a Lady - A spirited young woman who values her independence and must navigate the challenges of European society.
Isabel "Belly" Conklin from The Summer I Turned Pretty - A teenager enduring the complexities of summer love and family dynamics.
Isabel Culpeper from the Shiver series - A strong-willed character grappling with werewolves in her family's town.
Isabel Pullman from Wonder - The caring and protective mother of a son with facial differences, navigating his first year of public school.

Popularity of the Name Isabel

According to the Social Security Administration, the name Isabel has enjoyed a consistent presence in the realm of popular baby names in the United States, indicating its timeless appeal. While specific rankings fluctuate annually, Isabel remains a favored choice among parents for its elegance and historical depth.

Isabel, with its roots in Spanish and Portuguese, is a variation of Elizabeth, carrying with it a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance. Esteemed historical figures bearing the name include Isabel of Castile, a pivotal monarch in the late 15th century who, alongside her husband Ferdinand II of Aragon, is credited with unifying Spain under their rule. The name has also been borne by various queens and noblewomen throughout history, underscoring its regal connotations.

In the world of arts and entertainment, notable Isabels include Isabel Allende, the Chilean-American novelist known for her contributions to Latin American literature, particularly the novel The House of the Spirits. The name graces screens and stages as well, embodied by talents such as Isabel Lucas, an Australian actress recognized for her roles in films like Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Fictional characters named Isabel or Isabelle have captivated audiences in literature and film, highlighting the nameâ€™s versatility and enduring charm. From Isabel Archer, the protagonist of Henry James's novel The Portrait of a Lady, to Isabelle Lightwood, a fierce and determined character in the The Mortal Instruments series, the name Isabel is synonymous with strength, intelligence, and complexity.