Raffael

Raffael is a masculine given name used primarily in German-speaking countries as a variant of Raphael. The name derives from the Hebrew Refa'el, meaning "God heals." The German spelling Raffael typically uses the double f and the -el ending, and it has related forms in other languages, such as Rafael (Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch), Rafail (Slavic languages), Raffi (diminutive), and Italian Raffaele. In French contexts the corresponding form is Raphaël, while the Italian variant is Raffaele.

Usage and distribution of the name are strongest in Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland, with occasional use among diaspora communities in other European countries. As with many traditional names, its popularity has fluctuated over time, and Raffael is generally viewed as a classic, somewhat formal given name within those cultures. The spelling variant with double f is particularly associated with German-language naming traditions, though individuals with the name can be found in diverse settings due to broader cultural exchanges.