Rachael

Rachael is a feminine given name, an English spelling variant of Rachel. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Rachel, meaning “ewe” or “female sheep.” In the Bible, Rachel is the wife of Jacob and the matriarch of the twelve tribes of Israel, a figure central to Jewish and Christian traditions.

As an English spelling, Rachael is one of several variants. While Rachel is the most common form today, Rachael appears in various records and may be more frequent in certain regions or generations. Related spellings such as Rachelle and Rochelle are sometimes treated as distinct names, though they share a common origin.

Usage of the name spans many English-speaking communities and continues in modern use. The spelling choices often reflect family preferences, cultural backgrounds, or religious considerations rather than any specific meaning or trait attributed to individuals with the name.

Notable bearers of this spelling include Rachael Ray (born 1968), an American television cook and author who has popularized one of the common variants of the name. The form Rachael appears across different cultures and media, contributing to its continued presence in naming practices.