Quick answer
Israel is a boy name with Hebrew roots meaning "God contends".
Pronunciation: English /ˈɪz.ɹeɪ.əl/; English /ˈɪz.ɹi.əl/; Spanish /iz.ra.ˈel/.
Meaning and history
This name comes from the Hebrew name יִשְׂרָאֵל (Yisraʾel) meaning "God contends", from the roots שָׂרָה ( sara ) meaning "to contend, to fight" and אֵל ( ʾel ) meaning "God". In the Old Testament, Israel (who was formerly named Jacob ; see Genesis 32:28 ) wrestles with an angel. The ancient and modern states of Israel took their names from him.
Notes and context
Usage: jewish, english, spanish, biblical, biblical greek | Hebrew: יִשְׂרָאֵל; Ancient Greek: Ἰσραήλ