Gabriel is a Biblical favorite, an angelic choice that's lighter and less patriarchal than some of his Old Testament brethren. Derived from the Hebrew name Gavri'el, Gabriel combines the elements elements gever, meaning "strong," and 'el, in reference to God.

Gideon is a no-longer neglected Old Testament name, but still makes an excellent choice for parents looking to move beyond such overused biblicals as Benjamin and Jacob. In the Old Testament, Gideon was a judge called on by God to rescue the Jews from the Midianites, and the name was popular among the Puritans.

Gail was a mid-twentieth century favorite, which has been far surpassed by its original form, Abigail and nickname Abby. Spelling variations include Gale and Gayle, the latter represented by TV journalist and Oprah bestie Gayle King. Gail was most popular in the 1950s, when it was in the Top 40, and could rise again, possibly as a middle.

Pronounced zheel, it's a dashing conquistador; as gill, it's the nice and slightly boring guy down the street.

Cute nickname but the "gabby" synonym might prove problematic, especially is your daughter is chatty....or not.

Old Testament name of a son of Moses used by the Puritans, and now by Orthodox Jews.

Rare Scottish variant of John, with multicultural overtones.

Not a traditional biblical choice, but the Philistine giant isn't a bad character as such, just a champion fighter who lost to the underdog. He has given his name to everything from insect species to roller coasters. In a time when we're seeing more biblical names with chequered associations — Leviathan and Cain spring to mind — Goliath may appeal to some.

Gay, nearly giddy, gee-whiz feel; also too reminscent of a gila monster.

A rare, unisex Biblical name, with a similar feel to choices like Omar, Haziel, Gideon, and Ofir, but also to Montgomery and Grover. In the Bible, Gomer was both a son of Japheth (and therefore grandson of Noah), and the wife of the prophet Hosea.

Spirited unisex Hebrew name.

An Israeli place-name as well as being the Hebrew form of Gabriel.

Symbolic name given to both boys and girls born on Shavuot, the Feast of the Harvest.

Gavriella is a feminine name of Hebrew origin, the female form of Gabriel, meaning 'God is my strength' or 'devoted to God.' This elegant name combines biblical significance with a melodious quality. While less common than Gabriella (its variant spelling), Gavriella has gained modest popularity in Jewish communities and beyond. The name preserves the Hebrew pronunciation more closely than its variants, making it appealing to parents seeking authenticity. Gavriella offers numerous nickname possibilities, including Gavrie, Ella, or Rielle. With its beautiful sound, meaningful etymology, and balance between uniqueness and familiarity, Gavriella represents a choice that is distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or understand. Its usage has gradually increased in recent decades.

Like Bethany and Shiloh, a meaningful biblical place-name.

Well used in Israel and in Russia, either on its own or as an endearment for Galila or Galina.

When considering the playground years, might be too close to gory.

Gedaliah is a somewhat obscure biblical figure who ruled Judea under the Babylonians. In the past it has mainly been used by Jewish parents, but now it has some potential as an unusual name with that stylish Old Testament sound.

A lesser-known archangel, but the name is probably best known today on comedian Gadiel Del Orte. Thanks to him, and the trend for biblical-sounding names, Gadiel has been rising in recent years.