Ismael
Ismael is a boy name of Spanish/Arabic origin meaning “God will hear”, pronounced ees-mah-EL. It ranked #263 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,307 babies, and peaked at #234 in 2024. Common nicknames: Isma, Ish, Mael.
How popular is Ismael in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Ismael mean, and where does it come from?
Ismael is the Spanish and Arabic-rooted form of Ishmael, derived from the Hebrew Yishma'el, meaning "God will hear" or "God hears." In the Book of Genesis, Ishmael was the son of Abraham and Hagar, and in Islamic tradition he is honoured as a prophet and the ancestor of the Arab peoples, sharing deep significance across the Abrahamic faiths. Ismael has long been popular throughout Spain, Latin America, and North Africa, valued for its warm sound and profound meaning of being heard and answered by God.
How is Ismael used around the world?
Ismael is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 5+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Ismael?
Famous People Named Ismael
- Ismael Serrano — Spanish singer-songwriter
- Ismael Miranda — Puerto Rican salsa singer
- Ismael Cala — Cuban-American journalist and television host
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Sibling Name Ideas for Ismael
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Ismael mean?
Ismael is a boy name of Spanish/Arabic origin meaning "God will hear." Ismael is the Spanish and Arabic-rooted form of Ishmael, derived from the Hebrew Yishma'el, meaning "God will hear" or "God hears." In the Book of Genesis, Ishmael was the son of Abraham and Hagar, and in Islamic tradition he is honoured as a prophet and the ancestor of the Arab peoples, sharing deep significance across the Abrahamic faiths.
How do you pronounce Ismael?
Ismael is pronounced ees-mah-EL. Common variations include Ishmael, Ismail, Ismaeel.
Is Ismael a boy name?
Yes, Ismael is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Isma, Ish, Mael.