Raquel

Meaning & origin

Raquel is the Spanish and Portuguese adaptation of the biblical name Rachel, meaning 'ewe' or 'lamb.' It first appeared in U.S. records in 1900 and reached its peak rank of 1120 in 1970, a time when Hispanic names were growing in visibility. Since 1992, its use has steadily declined, but it remains a familiar choice in states like Connecticut, New Jersey, and Maryland. In 2025, the name was given to roughly 1 in 7,690 baby girls, reflecting its enduring but niche appeal. As a cross-cultural staple, Raquel bridges Hebrew heritage and Iberian linguistic tradition, often chosen by families honoring both religious roots and Spanish-speaking identity.

Raquel is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Rachel, which comes from the Hebrew רָחֵל (Rachel), meaning 'ewe' or 'lamb.' The name has been used in the Iberian Peninsula for centuries and was popularized among Christian families due to the biblical figure Rachel, the beloved wife of Jacob. In the English-speaking world, Raquel gained visibility through the mid-20th century, especially in the United States and Latin America.