Nathan
Nathan is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning “He gave”, pronounced NAY-thun. It ranked #63 in the United States in 2025, given to 4,975 babies, and peaked at #20 in 2004. Common nicknames: Nate, Nat.
How popular is Nathan in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Nathan mean, and where does it come from?
Nathan is a Hebrew name meaning "he gave" or "gift of God," derived from the verb "natan" (to give). In the Bible, Nathan was a prophet who served as an advisor to King David and played a crucial role in ensuring Solomon's succession to the throne. The name has been used continuously in Jewish and Christian communities for millennia. Nathan has remained steadily popular in the English-speaking world since the 17th century, valued for its strong biblical heritage and straightforward, masculine sound.
How is Nathan used around the world?
Nathan is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 3+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Nathan?
Famous People Named Nathan
- Nathan Hale — American Revolutionary War hero and spy
- Nathan Lane — American actor known for The Birdcage and Broadway
- Nathan Chen — American Olympic gold medal figure skater
Similar Names to Nathan
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Sibling Name Ideas for Nathan
Looking for names that pair well with Nathan? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Nathan mean?
Nathan is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "He gave." Nathan is a Hebrew name meaning "he gave" or "gift of God," derived from the verb "natan" (to give). In the Bible, Nathan was a prophet who served as an advisor to King David and played a crucial role in ensuring Solomon's succession to the throne.
How do you pronounce Nathan?
Nathan is pronounced NAY-thun. Common variations include Natan, Nathon, Nathen.
Is Nathan a boy name?
Yes, Nathan is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Nate, Nat.