It’s no wonder that lots of parents want an angelic name for their child, hoping they will grow up to embody these celestial qualities. In this article with Impeccable Nest, we will explore some of the most popular last names that mean angel.
Common Surname Meanings Related to Angels
Engel
The surname Engel is derived from the German word for angel, which is “Engel”. This name has a long history and has been used by many families throughout Germany and other German-speaking countries.
The word “Engel” itself comes from the Latin word “angelus”, which means messenger or envoy. In Christianity, angels are believed to be divine messengers sent by God to guide and protect humans. They are often depicted as beautiful beings with wings, symbolizing their ability to travel between heaven and earth.
The use of surnames that reference angels is not uncommon in many cultures. In addition to Engel, there are other variations such as Angel, Angelo, and Angelos. These names all have similar meanings and origins, but may have different spellings depending on the language and culture.
The surname Engel can be traced back to the Middle Ages, where it was first recorded in the 12th century in Germany. During this time, surnames were becoming more common and were often based on a person’s occupation, location, or physical characteristics. It is likely that the surname Engel was given to someone who was seen as being angelic or had a connection to angels in some way.
In some cases, the surname Engel may have also been given to those who were believed to have a special connection to the divine. This could include priests, nuns, or other religious figures who were seen as being closer to God and his angels.
Today, the surname Engel is still fairly common in Germany and other German-speaking countries. It has also spread to other parts of the world through immigration and has become a popular choice for families looking for a meaningful and unique surname.
Evangelos
The name Evangelos is a beautiful and meaningful name that has its roots in Greek culture. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words – eu, meaning good, and angelos, meaning messenger. Together, these words create a name that means “good angel” or “bringer of good news”.
In Greek mythology, angels were believed to be divine beings who acted as messengers between the gods and humans. They were seen as protectors and guides, bringing messages of hope, guidance, and blessings to those in need. As such, the name Evangelos holds great significance and carries with it a sense of positivity, goodness, and protection.
The name Evangelos has been used for centuries in Greece and other countries with Greek influence. It is a popular name choice for both boys and girls, and its popularity has spread beyond the borders of Greece. Many parents are drawn to this name because of its strong connection to angels and its positive connotations.
Aside from its religious and mythological associations, the name Evangelos also has a deep and profound meaning. The word “evangel” comes from the Greek word “euangelion”, which means “good news” or “gospel”. This ties in perfectly with the name’s meaning of “bringer of good news”. It can be seen as a reminder to always spread positivity and share good news with others.
Furthermore, the name Evangelos has a melodic and lyrical quality to it, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and beautiful name for their child. It has a timeless appeal and can suit people of all ages and backgrounds.
Angelis
The name Angelis is a beautiful and meaningful name that has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the word “angel” which means messenger or divine being in many languages. The name Angelis is often associated with the concept of angels, which are believed to be spiritual beings that act as messengers between God and humans.
In Latin, the word “angelus” is used to refer to an angel, and it is from this word that the name Angelis is derived. This name has been used for centuries and has a strong connection to spirituality and divinity. It is a popular choice for parents who want to give their child a name that carries a special meaning.
The name Angelis has a deep and profound meaning, as it is associated with the concept of angels. Angels are believed to be celestial beings that are pure and holy, and they are often depicted as having wings and radiating light. They are seen as protectors and messengers of God, and they are believed to guide and watch over humans.
The name Angelis is also associated with qualities such as purity, kindness, and goodness. These are all qualities that are often attributed to angels, making this name a perfect choice for parents who want to give their child a name that reflects these virtues.
Furthermore, the name Angelis has a timeless and classic appeal. It has been used for centuries and has stood the test of time, making it a name that will never go out of style. It is a name that exudes elegance and grace, and it is sure to make a lasting impression on anyone who hears it.
In addition to its Latin origin, the name Angelis also has a strong connection to various cultures and religions. In Christianity, angels play a significant role, and the name Angelis is often associated with the archangels Gabriel, Michael, and Raphael. In Judaism, angels are also an important part of the faith, and the name Angelis is often used to refer to these divine beings.
Angello/Angeli
Angello and Angeli are two Italian surnames that have a beautiful and angelic meaning. Both of these names are derived from the root word “angelo,” which means “angel” in Italian. These surnames have been used for centuries and have a rich history and significance.
The name Angello is a masculine surname that is derived from the Latin word “Angelus.” This word is ultimately derived from the Greek word “angelos,” which means “messenger” or “messenger of God.” In Christianity, angels are seen as messengers of God who bring messages of hope, guidance, and protection to humans. Therefore, the name Angello can be interpreted as “God’s messenger” or “messenger of God.”
On the other hand, the surname Angeli is a feminine form of the name Angelo. It is also derived from the same Latin word “Angelus” and has the same meaning as Angello. However, the feminine form adds a softer and more delicate touch to the name, making it perfect for a girl.
In Italian culture, names hold a significant meaning and are often chosen based on their religious or cultural significance. The name Angello/Angeli is no exception. These names not only have a strong religious connotation but also represent qualities such as purity, goodness, and protection.
In addition to their religious significance, these names also have a poetic and romantic feel to them. They evoke images of heavenly beings with pure white wings and a peaceful aura. As a result, they have become popular choices for parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their children.
Furthermore, the popularity of these names has spread beyond Italy and is now used in various parts of the world. This is due to the influence of Italian culture and the widespread use of these names in literature, art, and media.
Angeles
The last name Angeles is a Spanish surname that has a strong connection to the concept of angels. The word “ángel” in Spanish means angel, and this last name is derived from it. This makes it a very meaningful and symbolic last name for those who bear it.
In Spanish culture, angels are often seen as divine beings that act as messengers between God and humans. They are believed to be protectors and guardians, watching over individuals and guiding them towards goodness and righteousness. The name Angeles, therefore, carries a sense of spirituality and faith.
The origin of the last name Angeles can be traced back to medieval times when surnames were first used. During this period, people often took on surnames based on their occupation, location, or physical characteristics. However, some surnames were also derived from religious beliefs and practices. In this case, the last name Angeles was likely given to individuals who were considered to have a special connection with angels or were believed to possess angelic qualities.
Throughout history, the last name Angeles has been passed down through generations, and it has become quite common in Spanish-speaking countries. It is estimated that there are over 200,000 people with this last name worldwide, with the majority living in Spain, Mexico, and the United States.
Those who bear the last name Angeles often take great pride in their heritage and the meaning behind their name. It serves as a reminder of their spiritual beliefs and values, and it connects them to a larger community of individuals who share the same last name.
In addition to its religious connotations, the last name Angeles also has a beautiful sound and a poetic quality to it. It is easy to pronounce and has a melodic rhythm, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
Angelini
The name Angelini is a beautiful and unique name that has its origins in Italy. It is derived from the word “angelo”, which means angel in Italian. This name holds a special meaning as it is associated with angels, who are often seen as messengers of God and symbols of purity, love, and protection.
Angelini is a diminutive form of the name Angelo, which is a popular name in Italy. The suffix “-ini” is commonly used in Italian names to indicate smallness or endearment. Therefore, Angelini can be translated to mean “little angel” or “angelic little one”. This adds a sweet and affectionate touch to the name, making it perfect for a child.
In many cultures, angels are believed to be guardians and protectors, watching over individuals and guiding them towards goodness and righteousness. As such, the name Angelini carries a positive connotation and is often associated with qualities such as kindness, compassion, and grace. These are all desirable traits that parents may wish to bestow upon their child.
Furthermore, the name Angelini has a musical and lyrical quality to it, making it a charming and melodic name. It also has a timeless appeal, as it has been used for centuries and continues to be a popular choice among parents today.
Angelico
The name Angelico is derived from the Italian word “angelo” which means angel. It is a masculine name that has been used in Italy for centuries, and it is also popular in other countries such as Spain and Portugal.
The meaning of Angelico is closely tied to its root word “angel”, which is often associated with divine beings who are believed to be messengers of God. In many cultures and religions, angels are seen as benevolent and pure beings who possess great beauty and grace. They are often depicted as having wings and radiating light, representing their ethereal nature.
Therefore, the name Angelico can be interpreted as “angelic” or “angel-like”. It embodies the qualities of an angel, such as purity, goodness, and beauty. This name can be seen as a reflection of the parents’ desire for their child to possess these qualities and lead a virtuous life.
In addition to its religious connotations, the name Angelico also has a strong cultural significance. It is associated with the Italian Renaissance painter Fra Angelico, whose real name was Guido di Pietro. He was known for his religious paintings that depicted angels and saints, and his work was greatly admired for its ethereal beauty and spiritual depth.
Less Common Angelic Surnames
Angelopoulos
The surname Angelopoulos is a Greek last name that has a deep and rich meaning. It is derived from the Greek word “angelos” which means angel, and the suffix “-poulos” which means son of. Therefore, Angelopoulos literally translates to “son of the angel.”
In Greek culture, angels are seen as messengers of God and are believed to have divine powers. They are often depicted as beautiful and pure beings with wings, representing their ability to transcend between heaven and earth. As such, the surname Angelopoulos holds a special significance as it is associated with divine parentage.
The use of patronymic surnames, where the father’s first name is used as a prefix or suffix to the child’s name, is a common practice in Greek culture. This tradition dates back to ancient times when families were identified by their patriarchal lineage. In this case, Angelopoulos indicates that the family is descended from someone who was believed to be an angel or had angelic qualities.
Furthermore, the surname Angelopoulos is not only a reflection of one’s ancestry but also carries a sense of pride and honor. It signifies a connection to the spiritual world and suggests a higher status within society. This is because angels are revered and respected in Greek Orthodox Christianity, which is the predominant religion in Greece.
Moreover, the use of surnames in Greece is relatively recent, dating back to the 19th century when the country gained independence from the Ottoman Empire. Before this, Greeks were identified by their first names and their father’s first name. The introduction of surnames was part of the modernization process and aimed to create a more organized and structured society.
Angelov
The last name Angelov is a Slavic surname that has its roots in the word “angel”, which is derived from the Greek word “angelos” meaning messenger or envoy. This surname is believed to have originated from the Balkan region, particularly in Bulgaria, and is also found in other Slavic countries such as Russia, Ukraine, and Serbia.
The name Angelov is a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from the father’s first name. In this case, it is derived from the male given name Angel, which is a popular name in many Slavic countries. The suffix “-ov” at the end of the name indicates “son of”, making Angelov mean “son of Angel”.
The origin of the surname Angelov can be traced back to the early Christian era when the concept of angels was prevalent in the religious beliefs of the Slavic people. Angels were considered to be messengers of God, and their presence was seen as a sign of protection and guidance. It is believed that this surname was given to families who were thought to have a connection with angels or were descendants of angels.
In Slavic culture, surnames were not commonly used until the 19th century, and most people were identified by their first names. However, as societies became more organized, surnames were adopted to distinguish individuals with the same first name. The surname Angelov was likely given to families who were known for their strong faith and devotion to Christianity, and were believed to have a special connection with angels.
Today, the surname Angelov is still quite common in Slavic countries, and it is often associated with qualities such as kindness, compassion, and spirituality. Many people with this surname take pride in their heritage and see it as a reminder of their ancestors’ deep-rooted beliefs and values.
Angelovich
The last name Angelovich is a Russian surname that has the same meaning as the Bulgarian last name Angelov. Both names are derived from the word “angel”, which comes from the Greek word “angelos” meaning “messenger” or “divine messenger”.
In many cultures, angels are seen as celestial beings who act as intermediaries between humans and God. They are often depicted as beautiful and benevolent creatures with wings, and are associated with qualities such as purity, protection, and guidance.
The suffix “-ovich” in Angelovich is a common patronymic ending in Russian surnames, indicating “son of”. Therefore, Angelovich can be translated to mean “son of an angel” or “descendant of an angel”.
The use of the name Angelovich as a surname likely originated from the belief that one’s ancestors were protected by angels or had some connection to them. It could also be a way to honor or pay tribute to a family member who was believed to possess angelic qualities.
The popularity of the last name Angelovich in Russia may also be attributed to the influence of the Eastern Orthodox Church, which places a strong emphasis on angels in its teachings and traditions. In fact, the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates the feast day of the Archangel Michael, one of the most prominent angels in Christianity, on November 8th.
Angell
The surname Angell is a medieval English occupational name that has its roots in the Old French word “angelier” which means messenger or courier. This surname is derived from the Latin word “angelus” which means angel, and it was used to refer to someone who had the duties of a messenger or courier.
In medieval times, messengers played a crucial role in communication and were responsible for delivering important messages and documents between different places. They were highly valued for their speed, reliability, and efficiency in delivering messages, and their services were in high demand. It is believed that the surname Angell was given to individuals who worked as messengers or couriers, and it became their family name over time.
The use of surnames in England can be traced back to the 11th century when it became necessary to distinguish between people with the same first name. In many cases, surnames were derived from the occupation or trade of an individual, and this is how the surname Angell came into existence. The suffix “-er” was added to the word “angel” to create the occupational term “angelier,” and eventually, it evolved into the surname Angell.
Angels are known as celestial beings in many religions and cultures, and they are often depicted as messengers of God. They are believed to have the ability to travel between heaven and earth, and their main duty is to deliver messages from God to humans. This connection between angels and messengers may have influenced the choice of the surname Angell for individuals who worked as messengers or couriers.
The surname Angell is not very common, but it can be found in various parts of England, particularly in the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex. Over time, some variations of this surname have emerged, such as Angel, Angellis, and Angellotti. These variations may have been created due to differences in dialects and pronunciations.
Evangelatos
The last name Evangelatos is derived from the Greek words “eu” meaning good and “angelos” meaning messenger. In Greek mythology, angels were considered to be messengers of the gods, bringing good news and blessings to humans. Therefore, the last name Evangelatos can be translated to mean “good angel” or “messenger of good.”
The word “eu” in Greek has a positive connotation, representing something that is good, pleasant, or beneficial. It is often used to describe qualities such as kindness, generosity, and goodness. In this context, the word “eu” is used to describe the nature of an angel, who is believed to possess these qualities.
The second part of the name, “angelos,” is derived from the Greek word “angelia,” which means message or news. This word is also associated with the concept of angels being messengers of the gods. In Greek mythology, angels were seen as intermediaries between the gods and humans, delivering messages and carrying out their will.
Therefore, the last name Evangelatos can be interpreted as someone who embodies the qualities of a good angel, such as kindness, generosity, and goodness, and is also seen as a messenger of good news and blessings. This name may have been given to individuals who were believed to possess these qualities or had a strong connection to the divine.
Elmali
The last name Elmali is a Turkish name that has a beautiful and profound meaning. It is derived from the word “elma”, which means apple, and the suffix “-li” which means “one who has”. Therefore, Elmali can be translated to mean “one who has an apple”. However, this name holds a much deeper significance as it also carries a symbolic meaning of being someone who has encountered or touched an angel.
In Turkish culture, angels are believed to be celestial beings who are messengers of God and are often seen as symbols of purity, goodness, and protection. They are also believed to guide and protect humans in their daily lives. The name Elmali, with its connection to angels, signifies a divine encounter or interaction with these heavenly beings.
The idea of touching an angel may seem like a physical act, but in this context, it symbolizes a spiritual encounter. It could mean having a deep connection with the divine, experiencing a moment of enlightenment, or feeling a sense of peace and protection from the angels. This name is a reminder of the importance of spirituality and the belief in something greater than ourselves.
Moreover, the name Elmali also carries a sense of responsibility and honor. Being one who has touched an angel implies that the person has been chosen by the divine and has a special purpose in life. It could also suggest that the person has a pure and kind heart, just like the angels.
In addition to its spiritual connotations, the name Elmali also has a poetic and romantic feel to it. The image of an apple, often associated with love and temptation, adds a touch of beauty and charm to the name. It could also be interpreted as a metaphor for the sweetness and goodness of the person who bears this name.
Malakias
The last name Malakias is a Greek name that has a strong connection to the concept of angels. It is derived from the Greek word “malakia,” which means angel or messenger. This name holds great significance and symbolism, as angels are often seen as divine beings who act as messengers between humans and the divine realm.
In Greek mythology, angels are known as “malakoi,” which translates to “soft ones” or “gentle ones.” They are believed to be benevolent beings who guide and protect humans, carrying messages from the gods and acting as intermediaries between mortals and the divine. This association with angels makes the name Malakias a powerful and meaningful one.
The use of the name Malakias as a surname can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was commonly used as a first name for boys. Over time, it evolved into a last name and has been passed down through generations. Today, it is still a popular last name in Greece and other countries with a strong Greek influence.
One possible reason for the popularity of the last name Malakias is its positive connotations. The word “angel” itself carries a sense of purity, goodness, and protection, making it a desirable name to have. Additionally, the name Malakias has a melodic and lyrical quality to it, making it aesthetically pleasing and easy to remember.
In addition to its Greek origins, the last name Malakias can also be found in other cultures and languages. For example, in Hebrew, the word “malach” means angel, and in Arabic, “malak” means messenger. This further emphasizes the universal appeal and significance of the name.
Malakos
The surname Malakos is derived from the Greek word “malakos” which means soft, delicate, or gentle. This name holds a significant meaning as it is often associated with angels, who are known for their ethereal and delicate nature.
In Greek mythology, angels were believed to be divine beings who acted as messengers between the gods and humans. They were also seen as protectors and guardians, embodying qualities such as purity, kindness, and grace. Therefore, having a last name that means angel, like Malakos, would have been considered an honor and a blessing.
The use of surnames in Greece can be traced back to ancient times when they were used to identify a person’s family lineage, occupation, or place of origin. In this case, the surname Malakos may have been given to families who were believed to have descended from or had a close connection to angels. It could also have been used to describe individuals who possessed angelic qualities, such as being kind-hearted, compassionate, and gentle.
Apart from its association with angels, the surname Malakos also has a deeper meaning. In Greek culture, the word “malakos” is often used to describe someone who is sensitive, empathetic, and emotionally vulnerable. These are qualities that are often attributed to angels, who are seen as beings of pure love and compassion. Therefore, having a last name that means angelic or soft and delicate like angels, like Malakos, could also suggest that the bearer of the name possesses these admirable qualities.
In modern times, the surname Malakos is not as commonly used as it once was. However, it still holds a special significance for those who bear it. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and beliefs of the Greek people and their reverence for angels. It also reflects the values of kindness, gentleness, and empathy, which are still highly regarded in Greek society.
Seraphim
In English, a last name is a family name that is passed down from generation to generation. Last names can have various origins, such as being derived from a person’s occupation, location, or even physical characteristics. In some cases, last names can also be associated with specific meanings or symbolism.
One example of a last name that carries a significant meaning is Seraphim. This last name is derived from the Hebrew word “seraph,” which means “burning one.” In biblical texts, Seraphim are described as the highest ranking angels who stand in the presence of God. They are often depicted as having six wings and are known for their fiery nature.
The origin of the name Seraphim can be traced back to the book of Isaiah in the Bible. In chapter 6, verse 2, it is written, “Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew.” This passage describes the appearance of the Seraphim as they worship and serve God in his heavenly throne room.
In Christian theology, Seraphim are considered to be one of the nine choirs of angels, along with Cherubim, Thrones, Dominions, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels. They are believed to be the closest to God and are responsible for carrying out his divine will. Seraphim are also associated with purification and cleansing, as their fiery nature represents the purifying power of God’s love.
The last name Seraphim is not very common, but it is often used as a first name for both boys and girls. It is a name that carries a strong religious connotation and is often chosen by parents who want to honor their faith. Some notable individuals with the last name Seraphim include American actress and singer Seraphina Beh, and Greek footballer Seraphim Sarafis.
Angelic Names in Other Languages
Here are some angel surnames from around the world and their associated meanings:
Melek
Last names that mean angel are often derived from different languages and cultures. One such last name is Melek, which means angel in Turkish.
The word “melek” comes from the Arabic word “malak”, which also means angel. In Turkish, it is pronounced as “meh-lek”. The letter “e” in Turkish is pronounced as “eh”, similar to the sound of “e” in the English word “bed”.
In Turkish culture, angels are believed to be spiritual beings who act as messengers between God and humans. They are seen as pure, holy, and benevolent creatures who protect and guide people on their spiritual journey. This belief is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and has influenced the Turkish language and culture.
The last name Melek is a popular surname in Turkey and is often used by both men and women. It is also commonly used as a first name for girls. In some cases, it may also be spelled as “Melik” or “Malik” depending on the region or family preference.
The use of last names in Turkey is relatively new, with most families adopting them in the early 20th century during the modernization period. Before this, people were identified by their given names, followed by their father’s name and their occupation or place of origin. However, with the introduction of surnames, many families chose to take on names that held personal or cultural significance to them.
In addition to its meaning of angel, the last name Melek may also have other symbolic meanings. In Turkish, “melek” can also refer to someone who is kind, gentle, and caring. Therefore, having this last name may also signify one’s personality traits or values.
Ferenac
The last name Ferenac is a unique and intriguing surname that has its roots in the Arabic language. It is derived from the Arabic word “Faris”, which means angel. This last name holds a special meaning as it is associated with heavenly beings who are believed to be messengers of God.
In many cultures, angels are seen as divine beings who possess great power and are responsible for carrying out God’s will. They are often depicted as beautiful and ethereal creatures, with wings and halos, and are believed to protect and guide humans on their spiritual journey.
The origin of the name Ferenac can be traced back to the Middle East, where the Arabic language is widely spoken. The name has evolved over time, and variations such as Faris, Fares, and Ferris can also be found. However, the root of all these names remains the same – Faris, which means angel.
The popularity of the name Ferenac can be attributed to its strong connection with spirituality and faith. Many people with this last name have a deep-rooted belief in the existence of angels and their role in the world. They may also have a strong sense of purpose and a desire to spread love and kindness, just like the angels they are named after.
Another interesting aspect of the name Ferenac is its phonetic similarity to the word “ferric”, which refers to iron. This could be seen as a symbolic representation of strength and resilience, qualities often associated with angels.
Paras
The last name Paras is of Indian origin and has its roots in the Hindi language. In Hindi, the word “paras” means angel or fairy. It is derived from the Sanskrit word “parijat”, which also means angel or celestial being.
In Hindu mythology, angels are known as “devas” or “divine beings”. They are believed to be messengers of God and are often depicted as beautiful, ethereal creatures with wings. They are also associated with purity, goodness, and protection.
The last name Paras holds a significant meaning in Indian culture. It is considered to be a divine and auspicious name, often given to children born under fortunate circumstances. It is believed that having this name can bring blessings and protection from the angels.
In addition to its religious connotations, the name Paras also has a poetic and romantic quality to it. The word “paras” is often used in Hindi literature and songs to describe someone who is pure, beautiful, and otherworldly.
The last name Paras is not very common, but it is still used by many families in India. It is a unique and meaningful name that reflects the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Indian people.
Tenshi
The concept of angels has been present in various cultures and religions throughout history. In Japanese culture, the word for angel is “Tenshi” (天使), which is a combination of two kanji characters: “ten” (天) meaning heaven or sky, and “shi” (使) meaning messenger or agent. Therefore, Tenshi can be translated as “heavenly messenger” or “celestial agent.”
In Japanese mythology, Tenshi are believed to be divine beings that serve as intermediaries between humans and gods. They are often depicted as beautiful, winged creatures with supernatural powers and are considered to be messengers of good fortune, protection, and guidance.
The use of last names in Japan is an important aspect of their culture and society. Last names, also known as surnames, are passed down from generation to generation and hold significant meaning and symbolism. They can reflect one’s family lineage, occupation, or even geographic location.
When it comes to last names that mean angel, Tenshi is a popular choice among Japanese families. It is not a common last name, but it is used by some families who want to honor the concept of angels or have a connection to the spiritual world.
One possible reason for choosing Tenshi as a last name could be the desire to express a deep belief in the existence of heavenly beings and their role in guiding and protecting humanity. It could also be a way to pay homage to a specific deity or religious figure associated with angels, such as Amaterasu, the Shinto goddess of the sun and heavens.
Another reason for using Tenshi as a last name could be to convey a sense of purity, innocence, and beauty. In Japanese culture, angels are often portrayed as ethereal and graceful beings, and the name Tenshi captures this essence perfectly.
Yao
The surname Yao, which is commonly found in Mandarin Chinese culture, has a beautiful meaning that is often associated with angels. In Chinese characters, the name Yao is written as 姚, which consists of two parts: the radical 女 (nǚ), which means “woman” or “female,” and the phonetic element 兆 (zhào), which can mean “omen” or “sign.”
When combined, these two characters create the name Yao, which can be translated to mean “angelic essence” or “luminous.” This meaning is derived from the phonetic element 兆, which is also used in other Chinese words related to light and brightness, such as 昭 (zhāo) meaning “bright” or “shining” and 照 (zhào) meaning “to illuminate” or “to shine upon.”
In Chinese culture, angels are often depicted as beings of pure light and goodness, bringing blessings and protection to those they watch over. Therefore, it is not surprising that the surname Yao, with its association with light and brightness, would come to be associated with angels.
Furthermore, the surname Yao has a long history and is one of the oldest surnames in China. It is believed to have originated from the ancient state of Yao, which was located in present-day Henan province during the Zhou dynasty (1046-256 BCE). The rulers of this state were said to be descendants of the legendary emperor Shun, who was known for his benevolence and wisdom, and was often associated with angels or divine beings.
Over time, the surname Yao spread to other regions of China and became more common among different ethnic groups. Today, it is estimated that there are over 10 million people with the surname Yao, making it one of the top 100 most common surnames in China.
In addition to its association with angels, the surname Yao also has other meanings and connotations. In some cases, it may be derived from the word 耀 (yào), which means “to shine” or “to dazzle,” further emphasizing its connection to light and brightness. It can also be a variant of the surname Ye, which means “leaf” or “foliage,” symbolizing growth and prosperity.
Malaak
The last name Malaak is an African surname that originates from the Arabic word malāk, which means “angel”. This name has a deep spiritual significance and is often associated with heavenly beings that are believed to bring messages of hope, protection, and guidance.
In many cultures, angels are seen as divine messengers who act as intermediaries between God and humans. They are often depicted as beautiful and ethereal beings with wings, symbolizing their ability to transcend earthly limitations and connect with the divine realm.
The use of angelic names as surnames is not uncommon in many parts of the world. In fact, the practice of giving children names with religious or spiritual significance has been a long-standing tradition in many cultures. These names are believed to bestow blessings and protection upon the bearer, and they serve as a reminder of one’s faith and connection to a higher power.
The last name Malaak is particularly common among people of African descent, especially those living in countries with strong Islamic influences such as Egypt, Sudan, and Somalia. It is also found among Arab communities in North Africa and the Middle East.
One possible explanation for the prevalence of this name in these regions is the spread of Islam, which brought with it the Arabic language and culture. As a result, many Arabic words and names have become integrated into the local languages and customs.
In addition to its religious connotations, the name Malaak also carries a sense of beauty and grace. This is reflected in the meaning of the word itself, which can also be translated as “beautiful” or “graceful”. As such, this name may also be seen as a reflection of the qualities that parents wish for their children to possess.
Aniela
Last names that mean angel are often derived from the first name Angela, which comes from the Greek word “angelos” meaning messenger or angel. One such last name is Aniela, a Polish form of Angela.
The name Aniela is pronounced ah-NYEH-lah and is commonly used in Poland and other Slavic countries. It is a feminine given name, but can also be found as a surname. The popularity of this name has increased in recent years, with many parents choosing it for their daughters due to its beautiful meaning and connection to angels.
In addition to being a variation of the name Angela, Aniela also has roots in the Latin name Angelus, which means “angel” or “messenger.” This further solidifies the link between the name and its angelic meaning.
The significance of the name Aniela goes beyond its literal translation. In Christianity, angels are seen as messengers of God, bringing important messages and guidance to people. They are also believed to be protectors and guardians, watching over individuals and guiding them towards their destiny. As such, the name Aniela holds a deep spiritual meaning, representing strength, guidance, and protection.
Furthermore, the name Aniela has been associated with qualities such as kindness, compassion, and empathy. These are all traits commonly attributed to angels, making the name even more fitting.
In Polish culture, names hold great importance and are often chosen based on their meaning and symbolism. The name Aniela, with its strong connection to angels, is considered a powerful and meaningful choice for a child’s name. It not only reflects the religious beliefs of the family but also serves as a reminder of the values they wish to instill in their child.
Anghelos
The surname Anghelos is a Romanian last name that has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word “Angelos” which means “messenger” or “angel”. In Greek mythology, angels were considered to be divine messengers who acted as intermediaries between the gods and humans.
The use of surnames originated in Europe during the Middle Ages when people started using them to distinguish themselves from others who shared the same given name. The practice of using surnames spread throughout Europe and eventually to other parts of the world. In Romania, surnames were introduced during the 19th century when the country was under Ottoman rule.
The surname Anghelos is a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from the father’s first name. In this case, it is derived from the first name “Anghel”, which is a Romanian variant of the Greek name “Angelos”. This indicates that the original bearer of the surname was the son of someone named Anghel.
The use of surnames in Romania was not widespread until the late 19th century when the country underwent a process of modernization and urbanization. During this time, many Romanians adopted surnames, and the use of patronymic surnames became less common. However, some families chose to keep their traditional surnames, such as Anghelos, as a way to preserve their cultural heritage.
The surname Anghelos is relatively rare, with only a few hundred individuals bearing this last name in Romania. It is most commonly found in the southern regions of Romania, particularly in the historical region of Wallachia. This is because Wallachia was heavily influenced by Greek culture due to its proximity to Greece and its long history of trade and cultural exchange with the Greeks.
In Romanian culture, the surname Anghelos is associated with qualities such as purity, goodness, and protection. This is due to the meaning of the name “Angelos” which is often associated with angels, who are seen as benevolent beings that protect and guide humans.
Conclusion
Last names carrying meanings related to angels represent mankind’s enduring fascination with these divine messengers. Whether referencing their purity, beauty, goodness or ability to guide us, angelic surnames evoke images of our highest human potential. From English staples like Engel to international variations like Tenshi and Aniela, parents have many options if seeking an angelic name from their family’s cultural roots.
I am Patricia Mann, an experienced professional in the art of naming children. With a wealth of knowledge in the field of baby names, I aim to assist parents in choosing a meaningful and beautiful name for their little ones. My expertise lies in the Name Meaning section, where I delve deep into the origins and significance of names, providing valuable insights that I hope will be beneficial for parents.
Understanding the profound impact a name can have on a child’s life, I strive to offer comprehensive guidance. The Name Meaning section is not just a repository of information but a resource where parents can discover the rich tapestry of meanings associated with different names. It is my belief that a child’s name is more than just a label; it encapsulates the desires, hopes, and love of the parents.
In this journey of baby naming, my goal is to make the process enjoyable and meaningful for parents, ensuring that the chosen name resonates with the family’s values and cultural background. I invite you to explore the Name Meaning of Impeccable Nest section as we embark on the delightful and important task of naming the newest members of your family.
