What does Abel mean?
From the Hebrew Hevel, usually read “breath” or “vapour.” Abel is the son of Adam in Genesis.
What does Malachi mean?
From the Hebrew Malʾakhi, “my messenger.” Malachi is the last of the Hebrew prophets.
Abel vs Malachi
Which is more popular?
Malachi is more popular than Abel today: about 2,692 US babies were given the name Malachi in 2025, compared with 1,525 named Abel.
| Abel | Malachi | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Breath | My messenger |
| Origin | Hebrew | Hebrew |
| Gender | Boy | Boy |
| Pronunciation | AY-bul | MAL-uh-ky |
| Syllables | 2 | 3 |
| First appeared | 1880 | 1880 |
| Peak year | 2015 (3,245) | 2006 (2,776) |
| In 2025 | 1,525 | 2,692 |
| Trend | Rising | Steady |
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Abel
Malachi
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Births by decade
| Decade | Abel | Malachi |
|---|---|---|
| 2020s | 10,674 | 14,631 |
| 2010s | 23,554 | 24,588 |
| 2000s | 8,364 | 20,780 |
| 1990s | 6,484 | 3,525 |
| 1980s | 4,730 | 746 |
| 1970s | 3,528 | 390 |
| 1960s | 2,665 | 108 |
| 1950s | 2,088 | 155 |
| 1940s | 1,225 | 183 |
| 1930s | 939 | 172 |
| 1920s | 881 | 185 |
| 1910s | 559 | 156 |
| 1900s | 121 | 51 |
| 1890s | 118 | 30 |
| 1880s | 107 | 58 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Abel or Malachi more popular?
Malachi is more popular than Abel today: about 2,692 US babies were given the name Malachi in 2025, compared with 1,525 named Abel.
What is the difference between Abel and Malachi?
Abel means Breath (Hebrew origin), while Malachi means My messenger (Hebrew origin).
Which name is older, Abel or Malachi?
In US records, Abel first appears in 1880 and Malachi in 1880, so Abel has the longer recorded history.