Axel is of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse 'Ásgeirr', which means 'god spear'. It gained prominence during the Viking Age and was brought to other parts of Europe through their expansions. In German-speaking countries, Axel became more common in the 19th century due to the influence of German Romanticism. The name Axel is also found in literature, notably in Oscar Wilde's 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'. Today, it is popular worldwide, particularly in Scandinavian countries and Germany.
The name Axel has seen a notable increase in popularity over the years, with a significant jump from 8 births in 2008 to 11 births in 2009, and another peak in recent years with 15 births in 2022. However, there were no recorded births of Axel in 2003 or 2006.