Angel

Angel; ultimately from a Greek word meaning ‘messenger’.

Angel belongs to the name family of Latin Angelus, with an ultimate Greek meaning of ‘messenger’. Its immediate association is the angel, a heavenly being in religious tradition. That imagery can give the name a tender, spiritual feel. Language makes a practical difference. In English, Angel is used for boys and girls and is pronounced /ˈeɪndʒəl/. The Spanish form Ángel is masculine and has a different sound, /ˈaŋxel/. The accent belongs to the Spanish spelling. For a family using both languages, choosing the intended form and sound is part of choosing the name. The English version has a flowing ending; the Spanish version can feel more firmly articulated. Both keep the direct, evocative link with an angel.

Etymology: From the Latin personal name Angelus, connected with the word for an angel and ultimately Greek angelos, ‘messenger’.