Rafael is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #189 in 2025 with 266 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2021 with 289 births ranking #188. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 2,560.0%. In 2025, approximately 1 in every 1,022 boys born was named Rafael. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Rafael is a graceful international form of Raphael meaning God has healed. It feels warm, elegant, and deeply rooted in religious tradition.
The name has long-standing use across Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking cultures and also carries biblical and angelic associations. Its breadth gives it both heritage and ease.