Immanuel: a male name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us".It derives from the Hebrew word "imánu él > ʼImmanuʻel > imanu'él".
Immanuel is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us". Its Hebrew origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Immanuel
Quick facts about Immanuel
Origin
Hebrew
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
imánu él > ʼImmanuʻel > imanu'él
Other Scripts
Hebrew (עִמָּנוּאֵל)
How to Pronounce Immanuel
Immanuel is pronounced /ɪˈmæn.ju.əl/(Hebrew)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Imman-uel
Say it like: "IMMAN-UEL"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Immanuel enjoys international appeal, used in 7 different linguistic and cultural contexts including norwegian, swedish, danish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
norwegianswedishdanishfaroesefinnishgermanhebrew
Name Relationships
Immanuel is a variant form of Emmanuel, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Immanuel means "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580.". The name comes from imánu él > ʼImmanuʻel > imanu'él. In its original form, the name derives from Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel / Imanu'él (עמנואל) Emmānouḗl (Ἐμμᾱνουήλ). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Immanuel for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Immanuel offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Immanuel?
Immanuel is a hebrew name. The name traces back to imánu él > ʼImmanuʻel > imanu'él. The original form Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel / Imanu'él (עמנואל) Emmānouḗl (Ἐμμᾱνουήλ) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Immanuel is written as Hebrew (עִמָּנוּאֵל). From its hebrew roots, Immanuel spread to become common in norwegian, swedish, danish, faroese and other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Immanuel developed as a form of Emmanuel, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Immanuel a boy or girl name?
Immanuel is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In hebrew tradition, Immanuel has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Immanuel?
Immanuel is pronounced "/ɪˈmæn.ju.əl/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Hebrew (עִמָּנוּאֵל), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Immanuel is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in norwegian, swedish, danish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Immanuel can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root imánu él > ʼImmanuʻel > imanu'él influences how Immanuel sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Immanuel?
Immanuel is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Immanuel gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Immanuel's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Immanuel holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Immanuel?
Immanuel is a form of Emmanuel. Over time, Emmanuel developed into several variations, with Immanuel emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In hebrew tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Immanuel might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In norwegian and swedish, Immanuel may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Immanuel commonly used?
Immanuel spans multiple cultures, including norwegian, swedish, danish, and 4 other traditions. The name originated in hebrew culture and spread as people migrated and cultures exchanged ideas. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Immanuel, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Immanuel into their naming traditions. A child named Immanuel will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Immanuel is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Immanuel?
Immanuel carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Imánu él / ʼImmanuʻel /Imanu’él” (Biblical Greek: Emmānouḗl ‘Ἐμμᾱνουήλ’), meaning “God is with us.” It is a symbolic name which appears in chapters 7 and 8 of the Book of Isaiah as part of a prophecy assuring king Ahaz of Judah of God’s protection against enemy kings. It is quoted in the Gospel of Matthew as a sign verifying the divine status of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew mentions the Immanuel prophesy from Isaiah, although it uses a Greek translation rather than the original Hebrew. Saint Emmanuel († ~304) was arrested and executed with 42 other martyrs, including Quadratus (Codratus) and Theodocius, in 304 as part of Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians. Their feast day is 26 March. Emmanuel Philibert (Italian: Emanuele Filiberto, known as “Testa di Ferro,” in English “Ironhead,” because of his military career; 8 July 1528–30 August 1580) was Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Immanuel originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Immanuel sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Immanuel often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In norwegian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.