Ariel is a distinctive boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #1447 in 2011 with 16 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2025 with 30 births ranking #1007. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 166.7%. In 2011, approximately 1 in every 21,615 boys born was named Ariel. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Ariel is a striking Hebrew name meaning lion of God. It feels bright, strong, and slightly airy because of its modern associations.
The name appears in the Hebrew Bible and later gained broad cultural recognition through literature and film. Its long use across genders and traditions adds to its flexibility.