Nathaniel is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #129 in 2016 with 476 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2012 with 536 births ranking #118. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 40.4%. In 2016, approximately 1 in every 697 boys born was named Nathaniel. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Nathaniel is a refined biblical name meaning God has given. It offers a more formal, expansive alternative to Nathan while keeping the same warmth.
The name appears in the New Testament tradition and has been used for centuries in English-speaking countries. Its steady presence gives it weight without making it feel severe.