Angel - Name Meaning, Origin and History

The name Angel originates from the Greek word "angelos," meaning "messenger." It has strong ties to Christian theology, where angels are divine messengers. Historically, the name has been used for both males and females, though it is more commonly given to boys in some cultures and to girls in others. In the United States, Angel has been used as a unisex name, with a notable increase in popularity for girls in the late 20th century. Notable bearers include Angel Corella, a Spanish ballet dancer, and Angel Coulby, a British actress known for her role in "Merlin." The name's variants, such as Angelo and Angelina, are popular in various cultures. In Spanish-speaking countries, Angel is a common name for boys. The name's popularity has fluctuated over time, with peaks in the 1980s and 1990s in the U.S. Sibling names often include other names with religious connotations, such as Gabriel or Faith. Individuals named Angel are often perceived as compassionate and protective, traits associated with the celestial beings they are named after.