Axel

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

Axel - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Axel: A-X-E-L, is a 4-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Axel: AHK-sel; AHKS ale
Meaning of Axel: Father of peace, source of life, my father is peace, peace of the father, axe, or small oak tree.
Origin of Axel: The name 'Axel' has Scandinavian origins, specifically from Sweden. It is derived from the Old Norse name Ásleifr, which is composed of the elements 'áss' meaning 'god' and 'leifr' meaning 'heir' or 'descendant'. Therefore, the name 'Axel' can be interpreted to mean 'divine descendant' or 'heir of the gods'. Its earliest known use can be traced back to medieval times in Sweden.; American Names; Celebrity Names; Danish Names; German Names; Hebrew Names; Latin Names; Scandinavian Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Axel: Aksel; Ax; Axe; Axil
Popularity of Axel: The popularity of the name 'Axel' has experienced notable spikes in recent years. While it has been used consistently in Scandinavian countries, it gained international recognition when it was chosen by musician and activist Bono as the name for his son in 2001. This celebrity association brought attention to the name and contributed to its rising popularity.

In terms of global trends, 'Axel' has seen a steady increase in usage since the early 2000s. It has become particularly popular in European countries such as Denmark, Norway, and Germany. In the United States, 'Axel' has also been steadily rising in popularity, currently ranking within the top 200 names for boys.; Axel currently has 460 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked boy's names. The name Derek is slightly more popular than Axel.

Etymology of Axel

As mentioned earlier, the name 'Axel' is derived from the Old Norse name Ásleifr. The element 'áss' refers to the gods in Norse mythology, which suggests a connection to the divine. The element 'leifr' signifies inheritance or descent. This combination of elements gives the name 'Axel' a powerful and meaningful connotation.

Cultural Significance of Axel

While 'Axel' is primarily associated with Scandinavian culture, its appeal has transcended geographical boundaries. The name has a strong and masculine sound, which may contribute to its popularity. It evokes images of strength, power, and resilience, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with a bold and distinctive quality.