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Nathan

♂ Boy

Pronounced NAY-thun /ˈneɪθən/High

Meaning: He gave; gift of God — from Hebrew Natan (to give)High

In 30 seconds: A warm Hebrew Biblical name meaning 'he gave' — a gift from God. Nathan the prophet was a counselor to King David, and the name has been a steady U.S. top-25 boys' name.
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Origin HighHebrew
MeaningHe gave; gift of God — from Hebrew Natan (to give)
Peak year2004
Total births (all-time)≈ 542,579

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 200418802017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Nathan comes from the Hebrew Natan, meaning 'he gave' or 'God has given,' from the root natan (to give). In the Hebrew Bible, Nathan is a court prophet during the reigns of David and Solomon. He delivered the parable of the poor man's lamb to David as a moral rebuke, and later helped secure Solomon's succession. The name Nathan is distinct from Nathaniel (gift of God), though related.

Nathan was embraced by English Puritans in the 17th century and has been a consistent presence in U.S. boys' naming since colonial times. It entered the top 25 in the late 20th century and has remained there, valued for its brevity, strong Biblical roots, and pleasant sound. Patriot Nathan Hale's legacy also kept it in American cultural consciousness.

Did you know? Nathan the prophet boldly confronted King David about his moral failures — a moment of prophetic courage that makes this a name associated with speaking truth to power, not just gentle gift-giving.

Variations

NathanielNat

Nicknames

NateNat

Famous Bearers

  • ★Nathan Hale (1755–1776)
    American soldier and spy during the Revolutionary War, famous for the line 'I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.'

If you like Nathan…

Noah— short Hebrew Old Testament name at the very top of the charts
Caleb— fellow Hebrew Old Testament hero with the same warm, accessible feel
Ezra— short, punchy Hebrew name enjoying the same modern classic revival
Samuel— Hebrew prophetic name with the same gentle strength and Biblical depth

Frequently Asked

What does the name Nathan mean?

Nathan is a Hebrew name meaning 'he gave' or 'gift of God,' from the root natan (to give).

How do you pronounce Nathan?

It's said NAY-thun /ˈneɪθən/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Nathan a boy or girl name?

Nathan is used almost exclusively as a boys' name.

How popular is Nathan?

Nathan has ranked in the U.S. top 25 boys' names for most of the past three decades.