Abel \a-bel\ as a boy's name is pronounced AY-bel. It is of Hebrew origin, and the meaning of Abel is "breath, vapour". From the Hebrew name Hevel, and the meaning implies vanity. The name may also derive from an Assyrian word meaning "meadow". Biblical: the second son of Adam and Eve. According to the Christian Church, he is a pre-Christian martyr and is invoked as a saint in the litany for the dying. The name has been in steady use since the sixth century, and is popular in Spain.
Abel has 8 variant forms: Abe, Abele, Abell, Abelson, Abey, Abie, Able and Avel.
For more information, see also the related name Abelard.