Ariel

What does the baby name Ariel mean? Learn about what Ariel means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Ariel - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Ariel: A-R-I-E-L, is a 5-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Ariel: AR-ee-əl; AY-ree-əl; AYR ee el; AH ree el
Meaning of Ariel: Lion of god, god's lion.
Origin of Ariel: The name 'Ariel' has multiple origins and can be found in various cultures and languages. One of its origins is Hebrew, where it is derived from the word אֲרִיאֵל (Ari'el), meaning 'lion of God' or 'lioness of God'. In Hebrew, 'ari' means 'lion' and 'el' means 'God'. Another origin of the name can be traced back to the Shakespearean play 'The Tempest', where Ariel is the name of a spirit.; American Names; Argentine Names; Biblical Names; Celestial Names; Disney Names; Hebrew Names; Israeli Names; Jewish Names; Literary Names; Nature Names; Place Names; Shakespeare Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Ariel: Airel; Airyel; Arel; Arie; Aryel
Popularity of Ariel: The popularity of the name 'Ariel' has experienced fluctuations over time. In the United States, it gained attention in the 1980s and 1990s, possibly influenced by the Disney animated film 'The Little Mermaid', which featured a character named Ariel. During this period, the name reached its peak popularity, particularly for girls. However, it has also been used as a boys' name.; Ariel currently has 385 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked boy's names. The name Bobby is slightly more popular than Ariel.

Etymology of Ariel

The etymology of the name 'Ariel' can be traced back to its Hebrew origins. As mentioned earlier, 'ari' means 'lion' and 'el' means 'God'. Therefore, the name can be interpreted as 'lion of God' or 'lioness of God'. In the context of the Shakespearean play, the name Ariel is associated with a spirit, representing an ethereal and otherworldly quality.

Cultural Significance of Ariel

In Hebrew culture, the name 'Ariel' holds religious and symbolic significance. It is often associated with strength, courage, and divine protection. The lion is considered a powerful and majestic creature, and the inclusion of 'God' in the name further emphasizes its connection to higher powers.

In the context of the Shakespearean play 'The Tempest', the name Ariel represents a spirit of the air who possesses magical abilities. This character has been interpreted in various ways, symbolizing freedom, transformation, and the supernatural.