Annabelle

Meaning & origin

Annabelle has been in continuous use in the United States since at least 1880, when it first appeared in Social Security records. Its trajectory has been uneven, with modest popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries followed by a mid-century lull. The name experienced a strong revival starting in the 2000s, reaching its peak rank of 89 in 2014. Since then, its popularity has been falling, with a 2025 rank of 343. In that year, about 1 in every 1,804 girls was named Annabelle. The name is most common in Alaska, Maine, and New Hampshire, reflecting a preference in northern New England and the Pacific Northwest. Its combination of Anna and Belle gives it a classic, compound feel that appeals to parents seeking a name that is both traditional and frilly.

Annabelle arose in the 19th century as an elaboration of Anna, blending it with the French word 'belle' (beautiful). The name was popularized in Scotland, where it was often spelled Annabel, and later spread to English-speaking countries. It gained further exposure through Edgar Allan Poe's poem 'Annabel Lee' (1849), though the spelling with -elle became more common in the 20th century.