Axel
Axel: name meaning, origin and popularity
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈæk.səl/
Meaning and origin of Axel
- A male given name from the Germanic languages in quiet use since the 19th century.
Etymology
From Danish Aksel, first used for the bishop and statesman Absalon Hvide (1128–1201), from biblical Absalom. Some sources suggest that the bishop was originally named Áskell, from Old Norse "god" + "cauldron, helmet", and Absalon was chosen as the nearest-sounding Christian equivalent, leading to the exchange of the middle consonants.
How popular is Axel?
Since 1880, 209 girls and 72,459 boys in the U.S. have been named Axel (0% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #6578 in 2017. Its highest rank for boys was #71 in 2023. In 2025 it ranked #79 for boys, with 4,148 babies given the name.
More Danish boy names
Sibling name ideas for Axel
Sister and brother names that share Axel's Danish roots and are still in the U.S. top 1,000.
Axel FAQ
What does the name Axel mean?
A male given name from the Germanic languages in quiet use since the 19th century. From Danish Aksel, first used for the bishop and statesman Absalon Hvide (1128–1201), from biblical Absalom. Some sources suggest that the bishop was originally named Áskell, from Old Norse "god" + "cauldron, helmet", and Absalon was chosen as the nearest-sounding Christian equivalent, leading to the exchange of the middle consonants.
What is the origin of the name Axel?
Axel is listed as a name of Danish origin.
How popular is the name Axel?
Since 1880, 209 girls and 72,459 boys in the U.S. have been named Axel (0% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #6578 in 2017. Its highest rank for boys was #71 in 2023. In 2025 it ranked #79 for boys, with 4,148 babies given the name.
Is Axel a boy or girl name?
Axel is mostly a boy name in the U.S.: 209 girls and 72,459 boys since 1880.
Popularity data: U.S. Social Security Administration baby name data, 1880–2025 (names given to 5+ babies per year). Origin and etymology text: Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.