Ismael

God will hear — a boy name of Spanish/Arabic origin

GenderBoy
MeaningGod will hear
Pronunciationees-mah-EL

Popularity of Ismael in the United States

#263Rank in 2025
1,307Births in 2025
#234 in 2024Peak Popularity
↑ Rising10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Ismael

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.

Ismael Around the World

Ismael is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 5+ international variants.

Languages
Catalan
Details

TypeMale given name

International Variants
İsmailTurkish
IsmailArabic
IsmaeleItalian
IshmaelEnglish
Ismaël

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Ismael

IsmaIshMael

Famous People Named Ismael

  • Ismael Serrano — Spanish singer-songwriter
  • Ismael Miranda — Puerto Rican salsa singer
  • Ismael Cala — Cuban-American journalist and television host

Similar Names to Ismael

If you like Ismael, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

Also consider:IshmaelRafael

Sibling Name Ideas for Ismael

Looking for names that pair well with Ismael? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

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.

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