Ismail is not as popular as the original, Ishmael, in America. It is a top 1,300 name option, however. This Arabic version of the name has a more classical and regal feel.
Meaning of the name Ismail:
Arabic: God will hear
Origin of the name Ismail:
Ismail, originally spelled Isma'il, is the Arabic version of the Hebrew name Ishmael. Ishmael was originally Yishma'el. It came from the root words “shame” and “el.” Ishmael was a son of Abraham in the Old Testament who became an ancestor of the Arabic people.
Symbolism of the name Ismail:
The baby name Ismail means “God will hear” because it has the same meaning as Ishmael. The root word “shama” means “to hear,” and “el” means “God” in the original name.
Style of the name Ismail:
Classical
Gender of the name Ismail:
Ismail is an ancient name for boys.
Pronunciation of the name Ismail:
ees-ma-EEL
Number of syllables in the name Ismail:
Three
Emotion evoked from the name Ismail:
Ismail feels classical and cultural. It has a refined and noble feel.
Alternative spellings for the name Ismail:
- Isma'il
- Ismayl
- Izmail
- Izmayl
- Ismaal
- Izmaal
Nicknames for the name Ismail:
- Ish
- Isie
- Iz
- Izzy
- Ely
- Smail
Popularity of the name Ismail:
Ismail has no record as a top 1,000 baby name in America. As of this year, it is above the top 1,000 list at number 1,212. In comparison, Ishmael was a top 1,000 option in the early 1900s and 1990s.
Related names for the name Ismail:
Great middle names for Ismail and their meanings:
- Adlai (God is just)
- Eliam (God is my nation)
- Reuben (behold, a son)
- Nadir (opposite)
- Silas (forest, wood)
- Ares (ruin)
- Ludy (loyalty)
- Kruz (cross)
Famous people with the name Ismail:
- Ismail I-III (previous Iranian shahs)
- Ismail Haniyeh (former Palestinian prime minister)
- Ismail Matar (soccer player)
- Ismail Aissati (soccer player)
Ismails in popular culture:
- Ismail (character from “Does My Head Look Big in This?”)