Rakel

Rakel is a feminine given name used primarily in Nordic countries, especially Iceland and Norway, as a local form of Rachel. The name Rachel originates from the Hebrew Raḥél, meaning “ewe,” and has many international variants; Rakel represents the Nordic adaptation.

In Iceland and Norway, Rakel is recognized as a traditional feminine name and continues to appear in modern name registries, though its popularity varies by region and generation.

In Finland, a closely related variant is Raakel, which is used as a Finnish form of Rachel; Rakel itself remains most strongly associated with Icelandic and Norwegian usage. The name is cognate with Raquel (Spanish/Portuguese) and Rachel (English), reflecting the same biblical root across languages.

As a Nordic form of Rachel, Rakel conveys the same underlying origin without altering its semantic meaning, which centers on the biblical figure Rachel rather than a separate Nordic interpretation. The name is regarded as a legitimate, established given name within its cultural sphere, with usage that may range from traditional to contemporary depending on locale.

See also: Rachel, Raquel, Rahel.