Axel

boyScandinavianChristian

Axel is a boy name of Scandinavian, from Hebrew origin, meaning “My father is peace”.

MeaningMy father is peace
GenderBoy
OriginScandinavian, from Hebrew
PronunciationAK-sul
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inSweden, Denmark, France, United States

Meaning and origin of Axel

Axel is a medieval Danish form of Absalom, the Hebrew name meaning 'father is peace', borne in the Bible by King David's rebellious son. Its spread in Scandinavia owes much to Absalon (or Axel), the twelfth-century Danish archbishop and statesman who is credited with founding Copenhagen. Today Axel is popular across Scandinavia, Germany, France and, increasingly, the US.

Is Axel a religious name?

Axel goes back to the biblical Absalom, though modern parents generally choose it as a secular Scandinavian name.

How popular is Axel?

Common in Scandinavia and rising in the US and France.

Gifts with the name Axel

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Spellings and variants of Axel

AbsalomAkselAxlAbsalon

Names similar to Axel

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Axel mean?

Axel means 'My father is peace'. It is of Scandinavian, from Hebrew origin.

Does Axel have a religious meaning?

Axel goes back to the biblical Absalom, though modern parents generally choose it as a secular Scandinavian name.

How do you pronounce Axel?

Axel is pronounced AK-sul.

Is Axel a boy or girl name?

Axel is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.