Rafael is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #222 in 2024 with 1,614 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2006 with 1,702 births ranking #217. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 15.4%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 1,063 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.