Nathaniel

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

Nathaniel - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Nathaniel
N-A-T-H-A-N-I-E-L, is a 9-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Nathaniel
nay-THAN-yəl
nah THAN yull
Meaning of Nathaniel
Gift of god, god has given, god gives.
Origin of Nathaniel
The name 'Nathaniel' has its roots in the Hebrew language, specifically in the Old Testament. It is derived from the Hebrew name Netan'el, which translates to 'gift of God' or 'God has given'. In the Bible, 'Nathaniel' is mentioned as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. His story is depicted in the Gospel of John, where he is described as a man of integrity and honesty.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Nathaniel
Nafanael
Naithan
Nat
Natanael
Natanielias
Nate
Nathan
Nathel
Thaniel
Popularity of Nathaniel
Over the years, the popularity of the name 'Nathaniel' has seen its fair share of fluctuations. In the United States, the name experienced a surge in popularity during the 19th century. It reached its peak in the late 1800s and early 1900s, when it was among the top 100 most popular names for boys. However, in recent years, its popularity has slightly declined. Nevertheless, 'Nathaniel' remains a timeless and classic name that continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its biblical significance.
Nathaniel currently has 472 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked boy's names. The name Zsigmond is slightly more popular than Nathaniel.

Etymology of Nathaniel

The etymology of the name 'Nathaniel' is rooted in the Hebrew language. The name is a combination of two Hebrew words 'natan', meaning 'to give', and 'el', which refers to God. When combined, these two elements create the beautiful meaning of 'gift of God' or 'God has given'. This etymology adds depth and spiritual significance to the name 'Nathaniel', making it a meaningful choice for many parents.

Cultural Significance of Nathaniel

The name 'Nathaniel' holds cultural significance in various communities and religious contexts. In Christian traditions, 'Nathaniel' is revered as one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. His story and character have been celebrated and studied for centuries. 'Nathaniel' represents qualities such as honesty, integrity, and devotion, making the name highly regarded among religious communities.