Eli
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.
Is Eli popular?
Steady Eli has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 2012.
| 2020s | 26,169 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 69,900 | |
| 2000s | 28,043 | |
| 1990s | 8,562 | |
| 1980s | 5,455 | |
| 1970s | 3,610 | |
| 1960s | 1,323 | |
| 1950s | 1,346 | |
| 1940s | 1,288 | |
| 1930s | 1,592 | |
| 1920s | 2,520 | |
| 1910s | 1,991 | |
| 1900s | 483 | |
| 1890s | 492 | |
| 1880s | 721 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Eli mean?
From the Hebrew, “ascended” or “high.” Eli is a priest in the Book of Samuel.
Variants & spellings
- Ely
- Elie
Names like Eli
Hebrew names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Eli
Popular Hebrew names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Eli
Explore related names
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.
Is Eli a popular name right now?
Eli has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 2012.
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.
What names are similar to Eli?
Names similar to Eli include Levi, Asher, Ezra, Caleb.
What names go well with Eli?
Hebrew names that pair well with Eli include James, Michael, John, David, Mary.