Rising since 2004, #3,757 for boys today.
Popularity of Ismaeel since 1995
Babies named Ismaeel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 34 |
| 2000s | 76 |
| 2010s | 198 |
| 2020s | 160 |
Meaning & origin
Ismaeel is a strong, traditional name with deep religious roots. It entered U.S. records in 1995, a relatively recent addition compared to its ancient origins, and has been steadily rising in use since 2004. Its peak year was 2023, suggesting growing appreciation among American parents, particularly in Michigan and Texas. Though still uncommon nationwide with a 2025 rank of 3,757 and 1-in-58,899 frequency, Ismaeel carries a sense of cultural and spiritual heritage, appealing to families seeking a name with clear meaning and historical weight.
Ismaeel is the Arabic form of Ishmael, derived from the Hebrew Yishma'el, meaning 'God hears' or 'God has heard.' In the Quran, Ismaeel is a prophet and the son of Ibrahim (Abraham), and he is considered a patriarch of the Arab people. The name has been used among Muslims for centuries and is a common name throughout the Islamic world.
Where Ismaeel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Isma, Ish
Sibling names for Ismaeel
Names that share Ismaeel's style, for a brother or sister.
