יָעֵל

Yael

girlHebrewJewishChristian

Yael is a Jewish girl name of Hebrew origin, meaning “Mountain goat, ibex”.

MeaningMountain goat, ibex
GenderGirl
OriginHebrew
Written asיָעֵל
Pronunciationyah-EL
TraditionJewish, Christian
Used inIsrael, France, Mexico, Argentina

Meaning and origin of Yael

Yael is the Hebrew word for the Nubian ibex, a nimble wild goat of the Judean desert, and so carries an image of grace and sure-footedness. In the Book of Judges, Jael (Yael) kills the Canaanite general Sisera in her tent and is praised in the Song of Deborah. The name is overwhelmingly feminine, though it is occasionally given to boys in Israel. It is also popular in Spanish-speaking countries.

Is Yael a Jewish name?

Yael is a biblical name: Jael appears in Judges chapters 4 and 5 as the heroine who defeats Sisera. It is a classic Jewish girls' name and is also used by Christian families, especially in Latin America and France.

How popular is Yael?

Very common in Israel and well used in French and Spanish-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Yael

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Spellings and variants of Yael

JaelYaelaJaelle

Names similar to Yael

More Jewish girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Yael mean?

Yael means 'Mountain goat, ibex'. It is of Hebrew origin.

Is Yael a Jewish name?

Yael is a biblical name: Jael appears in Judges chapters 4 and 5 as the heroine who defeats Sisera. It is a classic Jewish girls' name and is also used by Christian families, especially in Latin America and France.

How do you pronounce Yael?

Yael is pronounced yah-EL.

Is Yael a boy or girl name?

Yael is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.