Gabriel

Usually interpreted as “God is my strength”; also “man of God”.

Gabriel is a Hebrew name usually understood as “God is my strength”; “man of God” is another established interpretation. Both readings reflect its Hebrew elements, which connect strength or a man with God. The name belongs to the biblical messenger who appears in Daniel and Luke. There is a composed elegance to Gabriel: the firm g and b give it definition, while the ending opens out gently. That balance may appeal if you enjoy a name with religious depth and a graceful sound, without wanting a highly ornate form. Gabriel is written the same way in English, German, French and Spanish, but its sound changes. English begins with the vowel in “day”, whereas the French and Spanish forms begin with an a sound. For a family using more than one language, the shared spelling offers continuity while leaving room for different spoken forms.

Etymology: From Hebrew, combining an element connected with strength or a strong man and el, “God”.