Ismail

Updated: October 5, 2023 by Olivia Mittak

Ismail is not as popular as the original, Ishmael, in America. It is still a top 1,300 name option, however. This Arabic version of the name has a more classical and regal feel.

Meaning and 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. The name means “God will hear”.

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.

Nicknames for the Name Ismail:

There are lots of great nicknames for Ismail! We've compiled the best of them into this list, to make the work easy for you:

Ish
Isie
Iz
Izzy
Ely
Mail
Smail
Mailey
Mails
Miles
Isser
Mai
Smai
Ails
Ailer
Issy

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

Popularity of the Name Ismail:

Ismail has no record as a top 1,000 baby name in America. As of this year, it is below the top 1,000 list at number 1,212. In comparison, Ishmael was a top 1,000 option in the early 1900s and 1990s.