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boy name · Hebrew origin

Nathaniel

/ nuh-THAN-yel /
Boy Hebrew 4 syllables
Meaning
Nathaniel means Gift of God (Hebrew).
Gender
Boy
Origin
Hebrew
Pronunciation
nuh-THAN-yel
Popularity
#140 · U.S. boys (2025)
Popularity of Nathaniel in the US, 1880–2025
18801900192019401960198020002020

Nathaniel first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 2002, when 6,813 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 2,565.

Source: US Social Security Administration.

What does Nathaniel mean?

From the Hebrew Netanʾel, “gift of God,” a variant sense shared with Matthew.

Nicknames for Nathaniel

Names like Nathaniel

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Nathaniel mean?

Nathaniel means Gift of God. From the Hebrew Netanʾel, “gift of God,” a variant sense shared with Matthew.

What is the origin of the name Nathaniel?

Nathaniel is of Hebrew origin.

How do you pronounce Nathaniel?

Nathaniel is pronounced “nuh-THAN-yel.”

Is Nathaniel a boy or a girl name?

Nathaniel is most commonly used as a boy name.

How popular is the name Nathaniel?

In 2025, Nathaniel ranked #140 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.

When was the name Nathaniel most popular?

Nathaniel was most popular in 2002, when about 6,813 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.

What are common nicknames for Nathaniel?

Common nicknames for Nathaniel include Nate, Nat.