Annabelle
/ˈæn.ə.ˌbɛl/
Annabelle is a compound name blending Anna (from Hebrew Hannah, meaning “grace”) with the French word belle (beautiful). The result - “beautiful grace” or “gracefully beautiful” - is one of the most transparent and appealing name meanings in English.
The name can also be read as a variant of the older Scottish Annabel, which may have independent medieval origins. Edgar Allan Poe’s poem Annabel Lee (1849) cemented the name in American literary consciousness.
Annabelle peaked at No. 57 in 2014, part of the broader -belle/-bella naming wave that included Isabella and Arabella. At its height, over 3000 girls received the name annually. By 2024, it ranked No. 349 with 891 births.
What the name Annabelle means
The horror film franchise Annabelle (2014-2019) introduced an unexpected dark association, though it appears not to have significantly damaged the name’s trajectory - the decline was already underway.
At 3 syllables, the name has a lilting, fairy-tale quality. The double-N spelling distinguishes it from the single-N Anabelle variant.
Despite its retreat from peak popularity, Annabelle retains undeniable charm. Its meaning is lovely, its literary connections are rich, and its sound is musical.
The current lower ranking simply means fewer girls will share it - a benefit for parents who value distinction.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Annabelle
Annabelle - similar names
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