boy name · Hebrew origin
Eli
/ EE-ly /
Meaning
Eli means Ascended, high (Hebrew).
Gender
Boy
Origin
Hebrew
Pronunciation
EE-ly
Popularity
#104 · U.S. boys (2025)
Popularity of Eli in the US, 1880–2025
Eli first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2012, when 8,079 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 3,418.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
What does Eli mean?
From the Hebrew, “ascended” or “high.” Eli is a priest in the Book of Samuel.
Names like Eli
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Eli mean?
Eli means Ascended, high. From the Hebrew, “ascended” or “high.” Eli is a priest in the Book of Samuel.
What is the origin of the name Eli?
Eli is of Hebrew origin.
How do you pronounce Eli?
Eli is pronounced “EE-ly.”
Is Eli a boy or a girl name?
Eli is most commonly used as a boy name.
How popular is the name Eli?
In 2025, Eli ranked #104 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Eli most popular?
Eli was most popular in 2012, when about 8,079 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.