The name Jameel has its origins in the Arabic language, deriving from the root word "jameel," which means "beautiful" or "handsome." This name's earliest recorded usage dates back to the 7th century CE, during the time of the Islamic Golden Age.

The name's popularity can be traced back to its appearance in various Arabic literary works and historical texts from the medieval period. In particular, the name is mentioned in the famous collection of Arabic folk tales, "One Thousand and One Nights," where Jameel is depicted as a character known for his physical attractiveness and romantic endeavors.

One of the earliest recorded individuals bearing the name Jameel was Jameel ibn Ma'mar al-Udwani, a renowned Arab poet and scholar who lived in the 8th century CE. He was celebrated for his contributions to Arabic literature and his mastery of the Arabic language.

In the 11th century, Jameel al-Din al-Afghani, an influential Islamic philosopher and political activist, played a significant role in the Pan-Islamic and anti-colonial movements of the late 19th century. His name, which translates to "the beauty of the faith," reflects the reverence associated with the name.

Another noteworthy figure was Jameel Butayna, a Syrian poet and writer who lived during the Abbasid Caliphate in the 9th century CE. His poetic works, known for their elegance and emotional depth, have been widely studied and admired throughout the centuries.

In more recent history, Jameel Shami, a Palestinian artist and sculptor born in 1908, gained recognition for his intricate wood carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Palestinian culture and daily life. His artistic legacy has been celebrated both locally and internationally.

The name Jameel has also been borne by several prominent figures in modern times, such as Jameel Ahmad, a British-Pakistani writer and journalist known for his works on Islamic history and culture, and Jameel Jaffer, an American lawyer and human rights advocate who has worked tirelessly to protect civil liberties and challenge government surveillance programs.