Raphael
Raphael is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning “God has healed”, pronounced RAF-ee-el. It ranked #394 in the United States in 2025, given to 807 babies, and peaked at #394 in 2025. Common nicknames: Rafe, Raffy, Raph.
How popular is Raphael 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 Raphael mean, and where does it come from?
Raphael comes from the Hebrew "Rafa'el," composed of "rafa" (to heal) and "el" (God), meaning "God has healed." In Jewish and Christian tradition, Raphael is one of the archangels, known as the angel of healing. He appears in the Book of Tobit, where he guides and heals Tobias on his journey. The name gained widespread cultural recognition through Raphael Sanzio, the Italian Renaissance master painter. Raphael has been popular in many European countries for centuries and has seen renewed interest in the English-speaking world as parents embrace its artistic and spiritual heritage.
How is Raphael used around the world?
Raphael is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 8+ international variants.
Female FormRaphaela
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Raphael?
Famous People Named Raphael
- Raphael — Italian Renaissance painter
- Rafael Nadal — Spanish professional tennis player
- Rafael Barba — fictional character from Law & Order: SVU
Similar Names to Raphael
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Sibling Name Ideas for Raphael
Looking for names that pair well with Raphael? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Raphael mean?
Raphael is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "God has healed." Raphael comes from the Hebrew "Rafa'el," composed of "rafa" (to heal) and "el" (God), meaning "God has healed." In Jewish and Christian tradition, Raphael is one of the archangels, known as the angel of healing.
How do you pronounce Raphael?
Raphael is pronounced RAF-ee-el. Common variations include Rafael, Raffaello, Rafal.
Is Raphael a boy name?
Yes, Raphael is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Rafe, Raffy, Raph.