Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Isabel

The name Isabel is derived from the Spanish version of the name Elisabeth. Its mutation comes from the elimination of the first syllable of Elizabeth and the alteration of the final consonant sound “beth” into “bel.” The name's root origin "Elisheba" which means "God is my oath" shows up in Exodus as the wife of Aaron. Elizabeth is also the name of John the Baptist’s mother. For more information on the name’s etymology, see Elizabeth. Isabel was imported from Spain to the rest of Europe in the Middle Ages and eventually morphed into Isabelle and Isabella in France and England, respectively. The name was borne by many members of royalty throughout Europe which endows the name with an essence of nobility and grace.

All About the Baby Name – Isabel

Personality

OF THE GIRL NAME ISABEL

The Three energy is powerful and enthusiastic. These personalities are cheerful, full of self-expression, and often quite emotional. They have an artistic flair and "gift-of-gab" that makes them natural entertainers. Their joyfulness bubbles over, and their infectious exuberance draws a crowd. The Three personality is like a child - forever young and full of delight. They are charming, witty, and generally happy people. The Three personality lives in the "now" and has a spontaneous nature. Threes seem to live with a bright and seemingly unbreakable aura that attracts others to them. In turn, they are deeply loyal and loving to their friends and family. Luck also has a tendency to favor number Threes.

Popularity

OF THE GIRL NAME ISABEL

In the United States, Isabel is not as popular as Isabella or Isabelle, but it’s a relatively high-ranking name nonetheless. In fact, Isabel has achieved its most prominent position on the American popularity charts in the past decade. Certainly, Isabel is shadowing the monumental success of Isabella which is helping to bolster its own usage. As a Spanish form of the ever-popular name, Isabel’s usage is probably also fueled by the growing Hispanic population in America. Whatever the reason, the simple non-frilly spelling of Isabel gives it a unique elegance all its own.

Quick Facts

ON ISABEL

GENDER:

Girl

ORIGIN:

Hebrew

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

3

RANKING POPULARITY:

136

PRONUNCIATION:

iz-ah-BEHL

SIMPLE MEANING:

God is my oath, devoted to God, God's promise

Characteristics

OF ISABEL

Communicative

Creative

Optimistic

Popular

Social

Dramatic

Happy

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Isabel

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME ISABEL

Isabel Archer is the heroine of Henry James novel, The Portrait of a Lady, first published in book form in 1881. A beautiful, intelligent and independent young American abroad, whose life is eased by a fortuitous inheritance, she longs to live a life of freedom and adventure. Although pursued by several worthy suitors, it is Isabel’s bad fortune to fall in love with Gilbert Osmond, a European dilettante who is only interested in her money. She imagines him to be better and of finer character than he really is, and determines to marry him against the advice of her family and friends. When his true character is revealed to her after marriage, her dilemma is paralyzing. Shall she admit her mistake, leave her marriage and try again to find happiness in the world, or shall she adhere to the Victorian double standard of living by a strict code of appearance for appearance’s sake? Isabel’s ultimate choice has left readers debating both sides for over one hundred years.

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME ISABEL

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Isabel


Popular Songs

ON ISABEL

Sweet Isabel
a song by Enrique Iglesias

Isabel
a song by Mason Jennings

Famous People

NAMED ISABEL

Isabel Allende (Chilean author)
Isabel Martínez de Perón (former President of Argentina)
Isabel Sanford (actress)

Children of Famous People

NAMED ISABEL

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Isabel

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME ISABEL

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Isabel