Mishaal

Mishaal is a male given name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the Arabic word mishaal, meaning torch, flame, or lamp, and it carries connotations of illumination and guidance. The name is used primarily in Arabic-speaking countries and among Arab communities around the world.

Transliteration from Arabic to Latin script varies, so Mishaal is one common rendering alongside Mishal and other spellings. The pronunciation and spelling differences reflect the shifting vowels and emphasis that occur when converting Arabic sounds to English or other languages.

In contemporary usage, Mishaal appears in naming practices across the Gulf region and beyond, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, as well as in diaspora communities. As a given name, it can appear in various social and professional contexts, including sports, business, and public service, with different spellings in English-language sources.

Because Mishaal is derived from a common Arabic noun, the word also appears in Arabic literature as a general term for a torch or flame. In such literary contexts, the term can symbolize light, guidance, or illumination, independent of its use as a personal name.

Notable individuals bearing the name may be found across fields, but spelling variations can affect attribution. The name’s meaning and cultural associations often render Mishaal a recognizable identifier within Arabic-speaking communities and among those familiar with Arabic naming practices.