Nathanael

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What does the baby name Nathanael mean? Learn about what Nathanael means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Nathanael - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Nathanael
N-A-T-H-A-N-A-E-L, is a 9-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Nathanael
nah THAN yel
Meaning of Nathanael
God has given, gift from god, gift of god.
Origin of Nathanael
'Nathanael' is derived from the Hebrew name Netan'el, which means 'gift of God'. It is a biblical name that can be traced back to ancient times. The earliest known use of the name can be found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. 'Nathanael' was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ, making it a name with strong ties to religious history.
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Popularity of Nathanael
Over time, the popularity of the name 'Nathanael' has fluctuated. In the early centuries, it was not a widely used name, but it gained popularity during the Middle Ages. In recent times, however, the name has become less common. It is worth noting that there have been notable spikes in usage throughout history, often coinciding with religious revivals or periods of increased biblical influence.
Nathanael currently has 78 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked boy's names. The name Ira is slightly more popular than Nathanael.

Etymology of Nathanael

The etymology of 'Nathanael' can be traced back to its Hebrew roots. 'Natan' means 'to give' in Hebrew, while 'El' is a common Hebrew term for God. Therefore, the name 'Nathanael' can be interpreted as 'gift of God'. This etymology reflects the biblical significance of the name and highlights the belief that a child named 'Nathanael' is seen as a precious gift from God.

Cultural Significance of Nathanael

The cultural significance of the name 'Nathanael' is particularly notable within religious contexts. As mentioned earlier, 'Nathanael' was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. This association with biblical history has made the name highly regarded among religious communities. It is often seen as a symbol of faith, devotion, and divine favor.