Namesake.

Ishmael

Boy #1491 in 2023

Ishmael is a boy name that appears in U.S. Social Security records.

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Popularity of Ishmael

Popularity, 1880–2023
120 births in 2023
1880 2023

6,552 U.S. births recorded from 1880–2023.

Peak year
2017
158 babies
First recorded
1880
Earliest SSA data
Recent trend
Steady
Last 5 yrs vs. prior 5

Prophet

إِسْمَاعِيل

Ismāʿīl

Ismail is the firstborn son of Ibrahim and Hajar, and the ancestor of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He is remembered for his patience and obedience during the sacrifice, and for building the Ka‘bah with his father.

From the Qur’an

"[Ismail] said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.’"

— Qur’an, As-Saffat 37:102

"And mention in the Book, Ismail. Indeed, he was true to his promise, and he was a messenger and a prophet."

— Qur’an, Maryam 19:54

The annual festival of Eid al-Adha commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice Ismail in obedience to God.

Ishmael / Ismail

Eldest son of Abraham and Hajar, considered the ancestor of the Arabs. The Qur’an describes him as “true to his promise, a messenger and a prophet.”

Ismail إِسْمَاعِيل
Arabic
Ishmael יִשְׁמָעֵאל
Hebrew / English

Related guide

30 Quranic Baby Names for Boys and Girls (With Verses)

30 names drawn from the Qur’an — prophets, named and referenced women, and meaningful Arabic concepts — each with its verse reference and classical meaning.

Read the full guide →
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About this page

Popularity counts come from the U.S. Social Security Administration's national dataset. Meanings and origins are curated from etymological sources. If you spot an error, please let us know.