Nathaniel is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #144 in 2024 with 2,511 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2002 with 6,813 births ranking #62. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 53.7%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 683 boys born was named Nathaniel. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
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.