While some of the meanings are quite noble (“great warrior”) or lovely (“full of grace”), others are a bit less so (“palm tree”). Because it is thought of as the “Christian Bible,” New Testament names tend to be more popular in modern America. But that doesn’t mean you won’t come across some more unusual options. Certain biblical names have been popular for decades. Names like Matthew, John, Sarah, or Hannah are considered classic ones, and also found in the Bible.
Popular Biblical Names for Girls
Consider these popular or unique Biblical baby names for girls, along with their meanings, origins, popularity in the top 1,000 list of girl names, and other interesting information.
Names A-D
Abigail
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: My father’s joy Alternative Spellings & Variations: Abbigail, Abigal, Abby, Abbie, Gail Famous Namesakes: First Lady Abigail Adams, advice columnist Abigail Van Buren, actress Abigail Breslin Peak Popularity: Abigail began a tremendous rise in popularity in the 1970s. It became a top 100 name in 1998 and was in the top 10 from 2001 to 2017. It was most popular in 2005 when it reached number four.
Ada
Origin: Hebrew, GermanMeaning: Noble, happy, adorned (German)Alternative Spellings & Variations: Adah, AadaFamous Namesakes: Scientist Ada Lovelace, religious figure St. AdaPeak Popularity: Ada was a top 100 name in the 1800s and early 1900s before falling out of favor. It had a resurgence in the 2000s and ranked 184 in 2020.
Anna
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Favor, grace Alternative Spellings & Variations: Ana, Ann, Anne, Annika, Annette, Hannah, Ona Famous Namesakes: Actress Anna Kendrick, dancer Anna Pavlova Peak Popularity: Anna was the second most popular girl’s name in the 1800s. It dipped in popularity, but remains in the top 100. The variation Hannah made the top 100 in 1986. It was the number two name for girls in 1998, 1999, and 2000. and was number 39 in 2020.
Bethany
Origin: HebrewMeaning: House of figs, house of afflictionAlternative Spellings & Variations: Betheny, BethennyFamous Namesakes: TV personality Bethenny Frankel, surfer Bethany HamiltonPeak Popularity: Bethany was a top 100 name for girls in the 1980s, reaching its peak of 87 in 1987. It has since dropped and sat at 603 in 2020.
Candace
Origin: Latin, EthiopianMeaning: Queen, pureAlternative Spellings & Variations: Candy, CandiceFamous Namesakes: Actress Candace Cameron-Bure, commentator Candace Owens, basketball player Candace ParkerPeak Popularity: Candace was a top 1,000 girl name from 1942 to 2005. It hit its highest rank of 101 in 1984.
Chloe
Origin: Greek Meaning: New growth Alternative Spellings & Variations: Cloe, Chloë, Cloie, Cloey, Chloie, Kloe, Khloe, Khloé, Khloey Famous Namesakes: Actress Chloë Grace Moretz, media personality Khloé Kardashian Peak Popularity: Chloe was number 390 in 1900, but dropped in popularity and fell out of the top 1,000 in 1944. It reappeared in 1982 and shot up in popularity to number nine in 2009 and 2010. It dropped a bit since and was at 27 in 2020.
Damaris
Origin: GreekMeaning: Calf or tame and gentleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Damaras, DemarisFamous Namesakes: TV chef Damaris Phillips, model Damaris LewisPeak Popularity: Damaris was most popular in 2006 with a rank of 603.
Deborah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: BeeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Debra, Debbora, Debora, Devora, Devorah, Debbi, Debby, DebFamous Namesakes: Actress Deborah Ann Woll, singer Deborah “Debbie” Harry, journalist Deborah NorvillePeak Popularity: Deborah was very trendy in the 1950s reaching number two 1955. It has fallen sharply and was at number 907 in 2020.
Delilah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: DelicateAlternative Spellings & Variations: Delila, DalilahFamous Namesakes: Actress Delilah Cotto, celebrity child Delilah Belle HamlinPeak Popularity: Delilah was number 808 in 1900 and ranked from 500 to over 1,000 until 2006. In 2007, it jumped up in popularity and rose to 69 in 2020.
Dinah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: JudgedAlternative Spellings & Variations: Dina, Dyna, DynahFamous Namesakes: Singer and TV host Dinah Shore, singer Dinah JanePeak Popularity: Dinah was most popular in 1955 with a rank of 488. It disappeared from the top 1,000 in 1967 and has yet to return.
Names E-H
Elizabeth
Origin: HebrewMeaning: My God is an oathAlternative Spellings & Variations: Alizabeth, Elisabeth, Elysabeth, Elyse, Elyssa, Elyza, Lilabet, Lilibet, Lizbeth, Liz, Betty, Betsy, Bessy, LibbyFamous Namesakes: Queen Elizabeth I and II, actress Elizabeth Taylor, poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, pioneering physician Elizabeth BlackwellPeak Popularity: Elizabeth is a traditionally popular name that has been in the top 30 for over 100 years. It was number 6 in 1900 and number 16 in 2020.
Esther
Origin: PersianMeaning: StarAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ester, Estée, Ester, Ettie, Hester, HettieFamous Namesakes: Swimmer Esther Williams, actress Esther Rolle, journalist and philanthropist Esther DysonPeak Popularity: Esther is a classic name that ranked 39 in 1900 and 153 in 2020.
Eunice
Origin: GreekMeaning: Good victoryAlternative Spellings & Variations: Unice, Eunike, EunikaFamous Namesakes: Philanthropist Eunice Kennedy ShriverPeak Popularity: Eunice was last popular in the early 1900s when it ranked as high as 106. It dropped significantly after the 1950s eventually falling out of the top 1,000 in 1996.
Eve
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Giver of lifeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Eva, Eave, Evie, AvaFamous Namesakes: Actress Eve Arden, rapper Eve (Eve Jihan Jeffers-Cooper)Peak Popularity: Eve ranked 414 in 1907. It fell out to the top 1,000 briefly from 1985-1997 then returned. It ranked 471 in 2020.
Hagar
Origin: HebrewMeaning: FlightAlternative Spellings & Variations: Hagir, Hajar, Agar, Haggar, HagurFamous Namesakes: Spokesperson Hagar Chemali, Olympic swimmer Hagar Badran, writer Hagar WildePeak Popularity: Hagar has not appeared as a top 1,000 name in the U.S. in the last 120 years.
Names I-L
Jael
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Mountain goatAlternative Spellings & Variations: Iael, Yael, Jaelle, Jayel, JayilFamous Namesakes: Actress Yael Grobglas, model Jael StraussPeak Popularity: Jael and Yael are rare names in the U.S.
Jemimah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: DoveAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jemima, Yemimah, Gemima, Jamima, Jemma, GemmaFamous Namesakes: Model Gemma Ward, actress Jemima Abey, artist Jemima KirkePeak Popularity: Jemimah is not among the top 1,000 names, but Gemma rose to 207 in 2020 and Jemma was at 583.
Joanna
Origin: HebrewMeaning: God is graciousAlternative Spellings & Variations: Joan, Joann, Joanne, Johanna, Jane, Jean, JeanneFamous Namesakes: Actress Joanne Woodward, comedian Joan Rivers, St. Joan of ArcPeak Popularity: Joanna was most popular in 1984 when it reached number 88. It was number 214 in 2020.
Judith
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Woman from JudeaAlternative Spellings & Variations: Judithe, Judyth, Judy, Judi, Jodi, Jodie, GiuliaFamous Namesakes: Actress Judith Light, astronaut Judith Resnik, author Judy BlumePeak Popularity: Judith was the fourth most common name for girls in 1940. Since then, it has slowly declined in popularity and ranked 903 in 2020.
Kezia
Origin: HebrewMeaning: CinnamonAlternative Spellings & Variations: Keziah, Kasia, Ketziah, Keshia, Keisha, KesheaFamous Namesakes: Actress Keshia Knight Pulliam, actress Kezia BurrowsPeak Popularity: Kezia remains a rare name in the U.S.
Leah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: WearyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Lee, Leigh, Lia, Lea, Leea, Leeah, LiahFamous Namesakes: Actress Lea Thompson, actress Leah Remini, singer Lea SalongaPeak Popularity: Leah has maintained consistent popularity over the years. It has recently seen a spike reaching number 24 in 2010.
Lois
Origin: GreekMeaning: The best or superiorAlternative Spellings & Variations: Louise, Loisa, Loise, Loisse, Loyce, LoysFamous Namesakes: Fictional character Lois Lane, actress Lois Chiles, writer Lois LowryPeak Popularity: Lois was a top 100 name from 1902 to 1953. It has dropped steadily since falling out of the top 1,000 in 1984.
Lydia
Origin: GreekMeaning: Woman from Lydia, an area in Asia MinorAlternative Spellings & Variations: Lidia, Lydea, Lyda, LidiyaFamous Namesakes: Model Lydia Hearst, writer Lydia Child, actress Lydia HullPeak Popularity: Lydia is a well-established name for girls. It ranked 104 in 1900 and 96 in 2020.
Names M-P
Maria
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Bitterness, rebellionAlternative Spellings & Variations: Marea, Mariah, Marian, Marianne, Malia (same root as Mary)Famous Namesakes: Journalist Maria Shriver, educator Maria Montessori, Queen Maria TheresaPeak Popularity: Maria is a classic name for girls. It was number 31 from 1973 to 1975 and number 109 in 2020.
Martha
Origin: AramaicMeaning: The ladyAlternative Spellings & Variations: MartaFamous Namesakes: TV personality Martha Stewart, First Lady Martha WashingtonPeak Popularity: Martha was a top 50 name from before 1900 through 1955. It has since become less common falling to 772 in 2020.
Mary
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Bitterness, rebellion Alternative Spellings & Variations: Maria, Marie, Maree, Marea, Mariah, Mariam, Mari, Merri, Merrie, Merry, Maryam, Miryam, Miriam, Mia, Mara, Marah Famous Namesakes: Queen Mary, actress Mary Tyler Moore, author Mary Shelley, gymnast Mary Lou Retton Peak Popularity: Mary is a traditional name for girls. It ranked number one from before 1900 through 1946 and was a top 100 name until 2009.
Mia
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Bitterness, rebellion Alternative Spellings & Variations: Mia is from the same root as Mary and Maria. Famous Namesakes: Actress Mia Farrow, actress Mia Goth Peak Popularity: Mia has skyrocketed from nowhere in the 1960s to be the sixth most popular name from 2013 to 2017.
Michal
Origin: HebrewMeaning: BrookAlternative Spellings & Variations: Mychal, MikhalFamous Namesakes: Fashion designer Michal NegrinPeak Popularity: Michal is not found in the top 1,000 girl baby names in the U.S., but it is a popular name in modern-day Israel.
Miriam
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Bitterness, rebellionAlternative Spellings & Variations: Miryam, Maryam, Myriam (same root as Mary and Maria)Famous Namesakes: Singer Miriam Makeba, actress Miriam McDonaldPeak Popularity: Miriam is an established girl name that ranked 214 in 1900 and 280 in 2020.
Naomi
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Pleasant Alternative Spellings & Variations: Noemie, Noemi, Naomie Famous Namesakes: Singer Naomi Judd, model Naomi Campbell, actress Naomi Watts Peak Popularity: Naomi is a classic name that has been surging in popularity. It broke into the top 100 in 2010 and was 52 in 2020.
Noa
Origin: HebrewMeaning: MovementAlternative Spellings & Variations: Noah, Knoa, Nowa, NowahFamous Namesakes: Rapper Noa James, actress Noa LindbergPeak Popularity: Noa entered the top 1,000 in 2014 and ranked 466 in 2020.
Orpah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Back of the neck or a fawnAlternative Spellings & Variations: Oprah, Orpha, OphrahFamous Namesakes: TV host Oprah WinfreyPeak Popularity: Orpah and Oprah are uncommon names that have not been in the top 1,000.
Phoebe
Origin: GreekMeaning: ShiningAlternative Spellings & Variations: Febe, Phebe, Pheebe, Phoebee, Phoeby, Phoebie, PheobeFamous Namesakes: Actress Phoebe Cates, illustrator Phoebe WahlPeak Popularity: Phoebe ranked 395 in 1900. It was less common from the 1950s through the 1990s, but is gaining popularity once again. It ranked 256 in 2020.
Priscilla
Origin: LatinMeaning: AncientAlternative Spellings & Variations: Prisca, Priska, Priscille, Cece, Cissy, ScillaFamous Namesakes: Actress Priscilla Presley, author and speaker Priscilla ShirerPeak Popularity: Priscilla has always been in the top 1,000 names, but peaked at 127 in 1940. It ranked 562 in 2020.
Names Q-U
Rachel
Origin: HebrewMeaning: EweAlternative Spellings & Variations: Rachael, Racheal, Rachelle, Rachele, Rahel, RaeFamous Namesakes: Author Rachel Carson, actress Rachel Weisz, political commentator Rachel MaddowPeak Popularity: Rachel is a traditionally popular name. It was number 153 in 1900 and a top 20 name from 1983 to 1999 reaching a high of nine in 1996. It was 227 in 2020.
Rebecca
Origin: HebrewMeaning: To join or tieAlternative Spellings & Variations: Rebeccah, Rebeckah, Rebekah, Rebekka, Becca, Becky, RebaFamous Namesakes: Actress Rebecca Romijn, writer Rebecca Walker, pioneering African-American physician Rebecca Lee CrumplerPeak Popularity: Rebecca was most popular when it reached a rank of 10 in 1973 and 1974. It dropped to number 250 in 2020.
Rhoda
Origin: GreekMeaning: RoseAlternative Spellings & Variations: Rhode, Rhodah, RodahFamous Namesakes: Fictional character Rhoda Morgenstern, actress Rhoda Griffis, actress Rhoda GemignaniPeak Popularity: Rhoda is a traditional girl name that was number 266 in 1900. It has since become less common and fell out of the top 1,000 in 1976.
Ruth
Origin: HebrewMeaning: FriendAlternative Spellings & Variations: Rut, Ruta, RutheFamous Namesakes: Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, TV personality Dr. Ruth Westheimer, chef and food writer Ruth ReichlPeak Popularity: Ruth is a classic name. It was a top 5 name until in 1922 and in the top 50 until 1951. It has fallen a little, ranking 220 in 2020.
Salome
Origin: AramaicMeaning: PeaceAlternative Spellings & Variations: Salomea, SalomeeFamous Namesakes: Actress Salome JensPeak Popularity: Salome is a rare name, however it was in the top 1,000 in the early 1900s ranking as high as 703 in 1903.
Sarah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: PrincessAlternative Spellings & Variations: Sara, Sarai, Sadie, Sally, Sallie, Sarita, Kala, ZariaFamous Namesakes: English royal Sarah Ferguson, actress Sarah Jessica Parker, comedian Sarah Silverman, political influencer Duchess of Marlborough Sarah ChurchillPeak Popularity: Sarah is an ever popular name for girls. It was number 37 in 1900, number three in 1993, and number 67 in 2017.
Selah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Unknown, possibly a musical term meaning to pauseAlternative Spellings & Variations: Sela, Seela, SeelahFamous Namesakes: Musician Selah Sue, model Selah Marley, actress Sela WardPeak Popularity: Selah is rising in popularity after being unknown in the top 1,000 until 2005. It was at 428 in 2020.
Shiloh
Origin: HebrewMeaning: PeacefulAlternative Spellings & Variations: Shilo, Shilow, ShylohFamous Namesakes: Actress and celebrity child Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, singer Shiloh HogansonPeak Popularity: Shiloh made the top 1,000 list of girl names in 2007 and the top 1,000 list of boy names in 2015. In 2018, Shiloh ranked 454 for girls and 618 for boys.
Susanna
Origin: HebrewMeaning: LilyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Susanne, Susannah, Susan, Sue, Susanne, Suzanne, Suzanna, Sanna, Susann, Sukie, Suzie, Zanna, ZuzanaFamous Namesakes: Activist Susan B. Anthony, author Sue Grafton, actress Suzanne Pleshette, author Susanna ClarkePeak Popularity: Susanna is a vintage name. It was number 479 in 1904 and dropped out of the top 1,000 in 1998. Susan is the more popular version of the 20th century reaching number two from 1957 to 1960. However, it has also fallen out of favor dropping out of the top 1,000 in 2018.
Tabitha
Origin: AramaicMeaning: GazelleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Tabatha, Tabby, TibbyFamous Namesakes: Inventor Tabitha Babbitt, author Tabitha King, photographer and reporter Tabitha SorenPeak Popularity: Tabitha was most popular in 1978 with a rank of 126. It dropped off the top 1,000 list in 2017.
Talitha
Origin: AramaicMeaning: Little girlAlternative Spellings & Variations: Talita, ThalitaFamous Namesakes: Actress Talitha Bateman, actress Talitha GettyPeak Popularity: Talitha is a rare name that does not appear in the top 1,000 in the U.S.
Tamar
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Palm treeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Tamara, Thamar, Tamra, Tamera, Tammi, Tammie, TammyFamous Namesakes: Singer Tamar Braxton, director Tamar Simon Hoffs, reporter Tamara KeithPeak Popularity: Tamar is an uncommon name, but Tamara was in the top 1,000 from 1939 to 2009 with a high rank of 64 in 1974.
Names V-Z
Vashti
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Unknown, possibly beautifulAlternative Spellings & Variations: Astin, Vashtie, Vashtee, Vashty, WashtiFamous Namesakes: Athlete Vashti Cunningham, writer Vashti HarrisonPeak Popularity: Vashti is uncommon, but it was a top 1,000 girl name four times between 1902 and 1907.
Zillah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Shade or shadowAlternative Spellings & Variations: Zilla, Zilah, ZilaFamous Namesakes: Celebrity child Zillah Jade Amey, activist and author Zillah R. EisensteinPeak Popularity: Zillah is unique and not in the top 1,000.
Zilpah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Unknown, possibly frailtyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Zilpa, Zilpha, Zylpah, SilpaFamous Namesakes: Famous poet’s mother Ziplah Wadsworth LongfellowPeak Popularity: Zilpah has never been in the top 1,000 names.
Zipporah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: BirdAlternative Spellings & Variations: Zippora, Ziporah, Zipora, Tzipora, Sepphora, Seffora, SephoraPeak Popularity: Zipporah is a unique name.
Popular Biblical Names for Boys
These are some of the most popular and unique biblical names for boys, along with their meanings, origins, popularity in the top 1,000 list of boy names, and other interesting information.
Names A-D
Aaron
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: High mountain or exhalted Alternative Spellings & Variations: Aron, Arron, Arin Famous Namesakes: Vice President Aaron Burr, football player Aaron Rodgers Peak Popularity: Aaron is a popular name for boys. It was 193 in 1900, reached number 28 in 1994, and was number 63 in 2020.
Abram
Origin: HebrewMeaning: High fatherAlternative Spellings & Variations: Abraham, Abe, Bram, Avram, AvrahamFamous Namesakes: Athlete Abram Elam, President Abraham Lincoln, psychologist Abraham MaslowPeak Popularity: Abram reached 376 in 2013 and Abraham was 555 in 2020.
Adam
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Man, red man, man from the red earthAlternative Spellings & Variations: Adamo, Adham, AdemFamous Namesakes: Singer Adam Levine, comedian Adam Sandler, actor Adam DriverPeak Popularity: Adam is a traditionally popular boy name. It was number 187 in 1900, it reached number 18 in 1983 and 1984, and was 96 in 2020.
Alexander
Origin: Greek Meaning: Defender of men Alternative Spellings & Variations: Al, Alec, Alex, Aleksander, Lex, Xander, Zander Famous Namesakes: King Alexander the Great, politician Alexander Hamilton, baseball player Alex Rodriguez, television host Alex Trebec Peak Popularity: Alexander was the fourth most popular name in 2009.
Amos
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Strong, carry a heavy load or burdenAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ames, Aymos, AmossFamous Namesakes: Cognitive and mathematical psychologist Amos Tversky, mechanical engineer Amos WhitneyPeak Popularity: Amos ranked 168 in 1900. It fell out of the top 500 in 1962 and briefly dropped out of the top 1,000 in the 2000s. However, it seems to be making a comeback with a slow rise in rank since 2011. It reached 703 in 2020.
Andrew
Origin: GreekMeaning: ManlyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Andreas, Andre, Andres, Andy, DrewFamous Namesakes: Saint Andrew, Prince Andrew, actor Andrew Garfield, President Andrew Jackson, comedian Drew CareyPeak Popularity: Andrew ranked fifth in 2005 at its peak. Andrew is a classic boy name. It has been a top 100 name for well over a hundred years. It reached number five in 1988, 1991, 1992, and 2003. In 2020, Andrew was number 52.
Asher
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Happy, blessedAlternative Spellings & Variations: Aser, Ashir, Ashyr, AshorFamous Namesakes: Actor Asher Angel, rapper Asher RothPeak Popularity: Asher didn’t break into the top 1,000 until the 1990s, but it has been skyrocketing. It was at 32 in 2020.
Bartholomew
Origin: GreekMeaning: Son of the furrowAlternative Spellings & Variations: Bartolomeo, Bartolo, Bartol, Bart, Bartlett, Mees, MiesFamous Namesakes: Saint Bartholomew, fictional character Bart Simpson, football player Bart Starr, pirate Bartholomew “Black Bart” RobertsPeak Popularity: Bartholomew appeared as a top 1,000 name 11 times between 1902 and 1971 with a peak rank of 800. Bart was most popular in 1959 when it reached 249, but it dropped out of the top 1,000 in 1988.
Benjamin
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Son of the right hand or son of the southAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ben, Benji, Bennie, BennyFamous Namesakes: Inventor, politician, and author Benjamin Franklin, President Benjamin Harrison, actor Ben AffleckPeak Popularity: Benjamin has been a popular name for decades. It was the sixth most post popular name for boys in 2016, 2017 and 2018.
Caleb
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Faithful and whole hearted Alternative Spellings & Variations: Kaleb, Cal Famous Namesakes: Pepsi inventor and pharmacist Caleb Bradham, singer Caleb Johnson Peak Popularity: Caleb has seen a steady rise in popularity since the 1970s. It reached the top 100 in 1989 and was most popular in 2009 at a rank of 31. It ranked 56 in 2020.
Daniel
Origin: HebrewMeaning: God is my judgeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Danilo, Dan, Dannie, DannyFamous Namesakes: Pioneer Daniel Boone, actor Daniel Craig, football player Dan MarinoPeak Popularity: Daniel is a time-honored name for boys. It was number 44 in 1900 and a top 20 name since 1952. It was number five in 1985, 1990, 2007, and 2008. It ranked 14 in 2020.
David
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Beloved Alternative Spellings & Variations: Dave, Davey, Davie, Davy Famous Namesakes: Soccer player David Beckham, singer David Bowie, frontiersman Davy Crockett Peak Popularity: David is a traditionally popular name. It has been a top 25 name for over a century, and it was the number one name in 1960. It ranked 28 in 2020.
Names E-H
Elijah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: My God is YahwehAlternative Spellings & Variations: Eliya, Elias, Ilias, EliFamous Namesakes: Inventor Eli Whitney, actor Elijah Wood, religious leader Elijah MuhammadPeak Popularity: Elijah is a vintage name that has become trendy. It made the top 100 in 1995 and rose to the fourth most popular boy name in 2020.
Ethan
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Solid, enduring Alternative Spellings & Variations: Eithan, Etan, Eitan, Eytan Famous Namesakes: Patriot Ethan Allen, actor Ethan Hawke, filmmaker Ethan Coen Peak Popularity: Ethan was a top 10 name from 2002 to 2016 reaching number two in 2009 and 2010. It ranked 13 in 2020.
Ezekiel
Origin: HebrewMeaning: God will strengthenAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ezequiel, ZekeFamous Namesakes: Football players Ezekiel Elliott and Ezekiel AnsahPeak Popularity: Ezekiel is a vintage name that is finding new popularity. It ranked 562 in 1900 but started to gain ground in the 1990s. It became a top 100 name in 2016 and was number 65 in 2020.
Ezra
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Help Alternative Spellings & Variations: Esdras, Ezras, Ezri Famous Namesakes: Poet Ezra Pound, actor Ezra Miller Peak Popularity: Ezra has a long history of use as boy name. It began a surge in popularity in 2010, making the top 100 in 2015, and reaching number 44 in 2020.
Felix
Origin: LatinMeaning: FortunateAlternative Spellings & Variations: Feliks, Felics, Phelix, FeliceFamous Namesakes: Composter Felix Mendelssohn, daredevil Felix Baumgartner, Nobel laureate physicist Felix BlochPeak Popularity: Felix is a classic name that has consistently ranked in the top 400 for over 120 years. It ranked 170 in 1900 and 225 in 2020.
Gabriel
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: God is my strong man Alternative Spellings & Variations: Gabriele, Gabe, Gabi, Gavril Famous Namesakes: Actor Gabriel Byrne, author Gabriel Garcia Marquez Peak Popularity: The name Gabriel is centuries old. It has been a top 110 name in the U.S. since 1975. It reached number 21 in 2010 and was number 38 in 2020.
Gideon
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Hewer, one who cuts tress or woodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gideone, Gedeon, Gidon, GidionFamous Namesakes: U.S. Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles, actor Gideon EmeryPeak Popularity: Gideon was on the U.S. top 1,000 list of boy names four times between 1900 and 1995. Since its return in 2000, it has seen a steady rise in popularity. It ranked 323 in 2020.
Names I-L
Isaac
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: He will laugh and rejoice Alternative Spellings & Variations: Ike, Isaak, Issac, Itzhak, Yitzhak Famous Namesakes: Natural philosopher Isaac Newton, musician Isaac Stern, author Isaac Asimov, politician Yitzhak Rabin Peak Popularity: Isaac is traditionally popular. In 1900, it was number 116. It became a top 100 name in 1995 and reached number 28 in 2013.
Isaiah
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: The salvation of the Lord Alternative Spellings & Variations: Isiah, Isaias, Esaias, Isaija Famous Namesakes: Basketball player Isaiah Thomas, actor Isaiah Washington, football player and actor Isaiah Mustafa Peak Popularity: Isaiah is well-established boy name. It ranked 396 in 1900, but had a spike in popularity since the 1990s. It reached number 39 in 2006 and was at number 51 in 2020.
Jacob
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Supplanter, the one who comes after Alternative Spellings & Variations: Jaycob, Jaceb, Jakob, Jake, Jeb, Jacques, Coby, Kobe, Koby Famous Namesakes: Actor Jake Gyllenhaal, boxer Jake LaMotta, politician Jacob K. Javits Peak Popularity: Jacob is an extremely popular name. It was ranked 101 in 1900, and was a top 10 name from 1993 to 2017. It was the number one name for boys in the U.S. from 1999 to 2012.
James
Origin: EnglishMeaning: Supplanter, the one who comes afterAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jaymes, Jay, Jim, Jae, Jimmie, JimmyFamous Namesakes: King James, President James A. Garfield, singer James BrownPeak Popularity: James has been a top 20 name in the U.S. for over 120 years. It was the number one name for boys from 1940 to 1952. It ranked 6 in 2020.
Jason
Origin: GreekMeaning: He that curesAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jayceon, Jayson, Jay, Jayce, Jae, Jaxon, JaxsonFamous Namesakes: Actor Jason Statham, actor Jason Momoa, singer Jason MrazPeak Popularity: Jason was most popular in the 1970s when it was the number two name for boys from 1974 to 1978.
Jeremiah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Yahweh will exalt or raise upAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jeremias, Jeremy, JerryFamous Namesakes: Philosopher Jeremy Bentham, pastor Jeremiah Wright, actor Jeremiah BitsuiPeak Popularity: Jeremiah is a long-established name. It was number 327 in 1900, and it’s found an increase in popularity in the 2000s reaching number 51 in 2010 and 2011. Jeremy reached number 14 in 1976.
Jesse
Origin: HebrewMeaning: GiftAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jessie, JessFamous Namesakes: Outlaw Jesse James, athlete Jesse OwensPeak Popularity: Jesse is a popular name for boys and has been in the top 200 for well over 120 years. It reached number 37 in 1981 and was number 203 in 2020.
John
Origin: HebrewMeaning: The grace of GodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ian, John, Johan, Johannes, Jonathan, JonathonFamous Namesakes: President John Adams, King John, President John F. KennedyPeak Popularity: John has been one of the most popular names for centuries. It was number one in 1900 and continued at number one through 1923. It was in the top 10 until 1987 and ranked 27 in 2020.
Jonah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: DoveAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jonas, Ionas, YonahFamous Namesakes: Actor Jonah Hill, medical researcher Jonas SalkPeak Popularity: Since 1900, Jonah was most popular in 2012 when it reached a rank of 128.
Joseph
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: He will add Alternative Spellings & Variations: Jose, Yousef, Yosef, Josef, Giuseppe, Jo, Joe, Joey Famous Namesakes: Chief Joseph, Vice President Joe Biden, author Joseph Conrad, boxer Joe Frazier Peak Popularity: Joseph is a classic boy name. It ranked 7th in 1900 and remained in the top 10 until 1935. It hit number six in 2003, but dropped a bit to 26 in 2020.
Joshua
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: God is salvation Alternative Spellings & Variations: Josh, Jesus, Yshua Famous Namesakes: Actor Josh Hutcherson, Civil War general and politician Joshua Chamberlain Peak Popularity: Joshua is a time-honored name that surged in popularity in the U.S. in the 1970s. It was a top 10 name from 1979 to 2009 reaching number three from 2002 to 2006. It was number 54 in 2020.
Levi
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Joined together Alternative Spellings & Variations: Lev, Levy Famous Namesakes: Inventor Levi Strauss, cyclist Levi Leipheimer, businessman Levi Ziegler Leiter, football player Levi Wallace Peak Popularity: Levi was number 199 in 1900 but became less common in the 1950s and 1960s. It started to rise again in the 1980s and became a top 100 name in 2009. It ranked 18 in 2020.
Luke
Origin: English, Greek Meaning: From Lucania, Italy or light Alternative Spellings & Variations: Lucas, Luc, Luca Famous Namesakes: Singer Luke Combs, actor Luke Wilson Peak Popularity: Luke held a rank of 243 in 1900. It slowly declined to 601 in 1942 before gaining in popularity again. It reached number 28 in 2014 and 2015.
Names M-P
Mark
Origin: Latin Meaning: Dedicated to Mars, warlike Alternative Spellings & Variations: Marc, Marcus, Marko, Markus Famous Namesakes: Author Mark Twain, actor Mark Hamill, entrepreneur Mark Zuckerberg Peak Popularity: Mark is a traditional boy name. It reached a rank of six from 1959 to 1964. It has since fallen to 235 in 2020.
Matthew
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Gift of God Alternative Spellings & Variations: Mathew, Matt, Matthias, Matteo Famous Namesakes: Commodore Matthew C. Perry, actor Matthew McConaughey, football player Matthew Stafford Peak Popularity: Matthew is a time-honored name for boys. It held the rank of 162 in 1900 and was a top 10 name from 1972 to 2008. It reached number two in 1995 and 1996. In 2020, Matthew ranked 30.
Michael
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Who is like God?Alternative Spellings & Variations: Micheal, Mikael, Michal, Mike, Mick, Mickey, Miguel, MikhailFamous Namesakes: Basketball player Michael Jordan, singer Mick Jagger, actor Michael CainePeak Popularity: Michael is a traditionally popular name. It was number 51 in 1900 and a top 10 name from 1943 to 2016. It was number one from 1954 to 1959 and from 1961 to 1998. It was number 12 in 2020.
Nathan
Origin: HebrewMeaning: He gaveAlternative Spellings & Variations: Natan, Nate, Nathaniel, NathanaelFamous Namesakes: Actor Nathan Lane, figure skater Nathan ChenPeak Popularity: Nathan is another classic boy name. It was number 126 in 1900, and entered the top 100 in the U.S. in 1972. It was most popular in 2004 and 2005 when it reached number 20. Nathan ranked 55th in 2020.
Noah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Rest, reposeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Noe, Noa, NoehFamous Namesakes: Author Noah Webster, actor Noah WylePeak Popularity: Noah is a old name that is new again. It began to gain in popularity in the 1980s and 1990s reaching the top 100 in 1995. It was the number one name for boys from 2013 to 2016 and the second most popular name from 2017 to 2020.
Paul
Origin: LatinMeaning: Small or humbleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Pauwel, Paulus, Pavel, Paulo, PabloFamous Namesakes: Artist Pablo Picasso, economist Paul Krugman, actor Paul Newman, singer Paul McCartneyPeak Popularity: Paul was a top 20 name from before 1900 through 1968. It fell out of the top 100 in 2001 and ranked 252 in 2020.
Peter
Origin: GreekMeaning: StoneAlternative Spellings & Variations: Piers, Petrus, Pete, Piet, Pedro, Pietro, PierreFamous Namesakes: Basketball player Pete Maravich, journalist Peter Jennings, singer Peter Gabriel, artist Peter Paul Rubens, actor Peter DinklagePeak Popularity: Peter has been a boy name for centuries. It ranked in the top 100 in the U.S. from before 1900 through 1996. It was number 35 in 1955 but has dropped to 214 in 2020.
Philip
Origin: GreekMeaning: Lover of horsesAlternative Spellings & Variations: Phillip, Filip, Phil, Felipe, FilippoFamous Namesakes: Author Philip K. Dick, Prince Philip, actor Philip Seymour HoffmanPeak Popularity: Philip is a traditional name. It ranked 94 in 1900, reached number 52 in 1941 and fell to 451 in 2020.
Names Q-T
Reuben
Origin: HebrewMeaning: Behold a sonAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ruben, ReuvenFamous Namesakes: Author and chess grandmaster Reuben Fine, labor organizer Reuben G. SoderstromPeak Popularity: Reuben was more common at the beginning of the 20th century then at the beginning the 21st century. It ranked 212 in 1900 but has slowly declined over the years to a rank of 919 in 2020.
Samuel
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: God has heard Alternative Spellings & Variations: Sam, Sammy, Sami, Ismaiel, Ismael, Ismail, Ishmael Famous Namesakes: Politician Sam Houston, actor Sam Shepard, writer Samuel Beckett, singer Sam Cooke Peak Popularity: A consistent top 100 name, Samuel ranked 33 in 1900 and 25 in 2020.
Seth
Origin: HebrewMeaning: AppointedAlternative Spellings & Variations: Shet, Sethe, Seath, SetFamous Namesakes: Actor Seth Rogen, basketball player Seth CurryPeak Popularity: Since 1900, Seth was most popular in 2000 when it was number 63. It has fallen a bit ranking 434 in 2020.
Silas
Origin: LatinMeaning: Of the woodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Silvanus, Silvano, SiFamous Namesakes: Actor Silas Weir Mitchell, author Silas House, celebrity child Silas TimberlakePeak Popularity: Silas ranked 249 in 1900 but slowly declined in use to a rank of 975 in 1970. However, its popularity began to rise in the 2000s, and by 2020 it ranked 100.
Simon
Origin: GreekMeaning: He heardAlternative Spellings & Variations: Simeon, ShimonFamous Namesakes: TV personality Simon Cowell, actor Simon Pegg, political leader Simon BolivarPeak Popularity: Simon has been a consistent top 600 name in the U.S. since 1900. It held the rank of 236 in 1900 and 254 in 2018. Its highest rank was 198 in 1910.
Solomon
Origin: HebrewMeaning: PeacefulAlternative Spellings & Variations: Sol, Salomon, Shalom, Slomo, Sulaiman, SuleimanFamous Namesakes: Author Solomon Northup, singer Solomon Burke, art collector Solomon R. Guggenheim, Suleiman the MagnificentPeak Popularity: Solomon ranked 221 in 1911, but it became less common from the 1940s through the 1990s. It has seen a slight resurgence since the 2000s and ranked 406 in 2020.
Stephen
Origin: GreekMeaning: CrownAlternative Spellings & Variations: Steven, Stefan, Steffan, Esteban, SteveFamous Namesakes: Comedian Stephen Fry, composer Stephen Sondheim, physicist Stephen Hawking, author Stephen King, wrestler “Stone Cold” Steve AustinPeak Popularity: Stephen is another classic boy name. It was most popular in 1949, 1950, and 1951 with a rank of 19. It dropped to 324 in 2020.
Thomas
Origin: AramaicMeaning: TwinAlternative Spellings & Variations: Tomas, Thom, Tommy, TomaFamous Namesakes: Inventor Thomas Edison, President Thomas Jefferson, theologian St. Thomas Aquinas, football player Tom Brady, baseball player Tom Seaver, actor Tom Hanks, singer Tom PettyPeak Popularity: Thomas has been a popular boy name for centuries. It ranked 11th in 1900 and was number eight from 1940 to 1955. It held a rank of 45 in 2020.
Timothy
Origin: GreekMeaning: Honoring GodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Tim, TimoteoFamous Namesakes: Actor Timothy Olyphant, football player Tim Tebow, filmmaker Tim Burton, singer Tim McGraw, business leader Tim Cook, computer scientist Tim Berners-LeePeak Popularity: Timothy was a top 100 name in the U.S. from 1943 to 2007. It reached a high rank of 11 in 1960, 1966, and 1967. Timothy was 193 in 2020.
Names U-Z
Zechariah
Origin: HebrewMeaning: God remembersAlternative Spellings & Variations: Zachariah, Zachary, Zachery, Zach, Zac, Zak, ZachariasFamous Namesakes: President Zachary Taylor, actor Zachary QuintoPeak Popularity: Zechariah is not common, but it has been on the U.S. top 1,000 list of boy names since 1986 with a rank of 924 in 2020. Zachary is a much more popular version of the name. Zachary reached number 12 in 1994.
