'annabel' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'amabilis', where 'amare' meant 'to love' and 'amabilis' meant 'lovable'.

'annabel' changed from the Middle English name 'Amabel' (from Old French 'amable'/'amabile') and eventually became the modern English name 'Annabel'.

Initially it meant 'lovable' (as a descriptive adjective), but over time it evolved principally into a personal name with the sense 'lovable' or 'beloved'.