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Name meaning & originIsmail إسماعيل

/iss-mah-EEL/

ArabicBoy
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Ismail is an Arabic boy's name pronounced /iss-mah-EEL/. The name means 'God hears' or 'God has listened'.

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Meaning of Ismail

The name means 'God hears' or 'God has listened'.

It is the Arabic form of the Hebrew name Ishmael. In Islamic tradition, Ismail was the eldest son of Ibrahim (Abraham) and Hajar (Hagar) and is regarded as a prophet and the ancestor of the Adnani Arabs. The root comes from the Semitic words 'shama' (to hear) and 'El' (God).

Origin
Arabic
Pronunciation
/iss-mah-EEL/

Cultural background

It is a highly revered name across the Muslim world, from North Africa to Southeast Asia, due to its Quranic significance.

Variations & nicknames

  • Ishmael
  • Ismael
  • Esmail
  • Ismayil
  • Smail
  • Ismaeel

Famous people named Ismail

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Ismail I

    The founder of the Safavid dynasty of Iran

    Politics · 1487–1524

  • Ismail Pasha

    Khedive of Egypt and Sudan who modernized the nation

    Politics · 1830–1895

  • Ismail Kadare

    Renowned Albanian novelist and poet

    Literature · 1936–2024

  • Ismail Merchant

    Indian-born film producer and director

    Film · 1936–2005

  • Ismail Haniyeh

    Palestinian political leader

    Politics · 1962–2024

Frequently asked about Ismail

Is Ismail the same as Ishmael?
Yes, Ismail is the Arabic cognate of the Hebrew name Ishmael found in the Bible.
What is the significance of Ismail in Islam?
Ismail is considered a prophet and the son of Ibrahim; he is central to the story of the Hajj pilgrimage and the festival of Eid al-Adha.
How common is the name Ismail?
It is consistently one of the most popular names for boys in many Muslim-majority countries and among Muslim communities worldwide.

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