Names That Mean Angel

The word angel comes from Greek angelos, messenger, and names built on it cross easily between boys and girls. Angel itself is used for both, especially in Spanish-speaking families, where it is often pronounced with a soft g. Angelo is the Italian form for boys, and Dangelo and Deangelo grew from an Italian surname meaning of the angel. For girls, Angela, Angelina, Angelica, Angelique and Angeline give you a range from classic to ornate, and Angie is the friendly nickname that ties them together.

Some names point to specific angels rather than the word. Michael and Gabriel are the archangels of the Hebrew Bible and later Christian and Islamic tradition, and both have been steady choices for boys for centuries. Seraphina comes from the seraphim, the fiery angels described in the Hebrew Bible, and has a lush, romantic sound.

Arabic contributes two strong options. Malak is the Arabic word for angel, used mainly for girls, and Malakhi comes from the name of a Hebrew prophet, meaning my messenger. When comparing these, think about how much you want the meaning to show. Angel says it plainly, while Michael carries it quietly inside a familiar classic.