'Annabel' originates from Scots and English usage, formed as a combination of 'Anna' (from Hebrew 'Hannah', meaning 'grace') and the element 'bel'/'belle' from Old French meaning 'beautiful'.

'Annabel' developed from medieval and early modern forms such as 'Anabel' and the French-influenced 'Annabelle'; over time these forms were adopted into English as the given name 'Annabel'.

Initially it conveyed the combined senses of 'Anna' (grace) and 'bel/belle' (beautiful), and it has remained primarily a female personal name carrying connotations of grace and beauty.