Rachel
/ˈreɪ.tʃəl/noun
A female given name of Hebrew origin, meaning 'ewe' or 'female sheep'.
Did you know?In the Bible, Rachel is a symbol of maternal longing and tragedy, representing the pain of unfulfilled desires and the strength of women throughout history.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Hebrew
Hebrew
רָחֵל (Raḥel)
“Literally means 'ewe', symbolizing innocence and sacrifice.”
Biblical Era
Hebrew
רָחֵל (Raḥel)
“A prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, Jacob's beloved wife and mother of Joseph and Benjamin.”
1st Century
Greek
Ῥαχήλ (Rhachēl)
“Adopted into Greek texts, preserving the original meaning as 'ewe'.”
Middle Ages
Latin
Rachel
“Used as a Christian name, representing virtue and motherhood.”
Modern English
English
Rachel
“A common female name, evoking themes of nurturing and feminine strength.”