Meaning & Origin
A female given name from Hebrew, a spelling variant of Rachel first recorded in the 17th century.
Rachael is a girl's and boy's baby name of Hebrew origin, an alternate spelling of Rachel, meaning 'ewe' — a symbol of gentleness and innocence. This spelling first appeared in English records in the 17th century and has been used continuously ever since.
In the Old Testament, Rachel is one of the most beloved figures — the wife of Jacob, mother of Joseph and Benjamin, celebrated for her beauty and devotion. The -ael ending gives this spelling a softer, more flowing visual quality that many parents prefer over the standard form.