'Anabel' originates from English (a modern spelling), ultimately tracing back to Latin, specifically the word 'amabilis', where 'amabilis' meant 'lovable'.

'Anabel' changed from Middle English/Old French names such as 'Amabel' and 'Amable', then through Middle English forms like 'Amabel' and later influenced by the name 'Anne' to become forms such as 'Annabel' and the modern spelling 'Anabel'.

Initially associated with the Latin adjective meaning 'lovable' ('amabilis'), over time it became used primarily as a personal name with that original sense preserved only in origin rather than literal usage.