“ישׂראל - Yisra'el, meaning 'God contends'” — Associated with the biblical patriarch Jacob
Israel origin · Unisex name
♂ 98% boys♀ 2% girls
#229US 2023
1.5kBirths / yr
→Stable
65.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 195100
How to pronounce Israel
IZR·ayl
/ˈɪzr.eɪl/ · stress on IZR · 2 syllables
“ישׂראל - Yisra'el, meaning 'God contends'”
Associated with the biblical patriarch Jacob · Israel origin
What does Israel mean and where does it come from?
Israel is predominantly a masculine name derived from the Hebrew name Yisra'el, which carries significant cultural and religious meaning in Judaism. The name is traditionally associated with the biblical patriarch Jacob, who was given the name Israel after wrestling with an angel. It is important to
Cultural significance
Israel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of ישׂראל - yisra'el, meaning 'god contends'.
Holding steady — currently #229 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1975–2023#229 · Top 0.17%
1975
1980
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#229
1,535
▲ up 4 · +2% births
2022
#233
1,506
▲ up 1 · -3% births
2021
#234
1,547
▲ up 2528 · +2522% births
2020
#2762
59
▲ up 125 · -2% births
2015
#2887
60
▲ up 999 · +54% births
2010
#3886
39
▼ down 237 · -2% births
2005
#3649
40
▼ down 191 · +5% births
2000
#3458
38
▼ down 34 · +19% births
1995
#3424
32
▲ up 2427 · +113% births
1990
#5851
15
▼ down 1324 · -6% births
1980
#4527
16
▲ up 1472 · +78% births
1975
#5999
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Israel
2023Rank #229
1,547
#3095
↗Rising
1975 - 202312 years
The story of Israel
Israel entered American naming records in 1951 and has been in use for over 73 years. A total of 65,617 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5999 in 1975 to #229 in 2023. Israel is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Israel means "ישׂראל - Yisra'el, meaning 'God contends'" — a name rooted in Israel tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Israel?
Israel is currently ranked #229 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Israel?
Israel originates from Israel tradition. Israel names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Israel?
Israel is a two-syllable name pronounced IH1 Z R EY0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Israel more of a girl or boy name?
Israel is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Israel
For a sister
Israel & Cohen♡
Israel & Daniela♡
Israel & Gabriela♡
Israel & Noa♡
For a brother
Israel & Cohen♡
Israel & Daniela♡
Israel & Gabriela♡
Israel & Noa♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#229
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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