| Meaning | God will hear |
| Origin | Hebrew |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity | Moderate |
| Length | 7 |
| Syllables | 3 |
| Syllabification | Ish-ma-el |
Ishmael is a timeless and meaningful name for baby boys, with a rich history and deep-rooted significance. Originating from Hebrew, Ishmael carries the beautiful meaning of "God hears" or "God listens." This name gained prominence through its appearance in religious texts, particularly in the Bible, where Ishmael was the first son of Abraham and Hagar.
Parents who choose Ishmael for their sons are often drawn to its profound spiritual association and the idea of being heard by a higher power. The name's variations in different languages highlight its international appeal and widespread usage across diverse cultures.
Ishmael has been embraced by notable figures in literature, music, sports, and diplomacy, contributing to its reputation as a name of distinction. In literary circles, it is famously known as the narrator and protagonist of Herman Melville's iconic novel "Moby-Dick," adding to its literary charm.
With its timeless elegance and profound meaning, Ishmael stands as a remarkable choice for parents seeking a name that carries both historical weight and a sense of divine connection for their beloved baby boys.
| Ish |
| Mael |
| Mel |
| Ishy |
| IJ |
| Ishmael Beah | Sierra Leonean author and human rights activist |
| Ishmael Reed | American poet, novelist, and essayist |
| Ishmael Miller | English professional footballer |
| Ishmael Houston-Jones | American choreographer and dancer |
| Ishmael Butler | American hip-hop artist and producer - member of Shabazz Palaces and Digable Planets |
| Ishmael Annoh | Ghanaian professional footballer |
| Ishmael Smith | American professional basketball player |
| Ishmael Khaldi | Israeli diplomat and politician |
| Ishmael Sanchez | Puerto Rican actor and singer |
| Ishmael 'Butterfly' Butler | Jamaican musician and member of The Last Poets |
| Ishmael Wong | The Expanse - Character in "The Expanse" book series by James S. A. Corey |
| Ishmael Chambers | Snow Falling on Cedars - Character in the novel "Snow Falling on Cedars" by David Guterson |