Nathan
Gender: Boy
Meaning: He gave; gift of God
Origin: Hebrew — from Natan (נָתָן), from natan (to give)
Popularity: Ranked #63 in 2025 with 4,975 babies born.
History: Nathan was a prophet in the court of King David who bravely confronted the king over the Bathsheba affair — a story of speaking truth to power. Nathan Hale was one of America's first great patriots, executed by the British as a spy with the legendary words 'I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.' The name has been solidly in the U.S. top 50 for most of the past 50 years. Nat is its friendly short form. It carries quiet heroism and biblical depth without feeling heavy or dated.
Famous people named Nathan: Nathan Fillion (actor), Nathan Lane (actor)
Name length: 6 letters
How common is Nathan? About 1 in 668 babies born in 2025 were named Nathan, or roughly 13.6 per day in the United States.
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Frequently asked about Nathan
What does the name Nathan mean?
Nathan means “He gave; gift of God” from Hebrew — from Natan (נָתָן), from natan (to give) roots.
What is the origin of the name Nathan?
Nathan has Hebrew — from Natan (נָתָן), from natan (to give) origin. The traditional meaning is “He gave; gift of God”.
How popular is Nathan?
Nathan ranked #63 in 2025 — given to 4,975 babies that year.
When was Nathan most popular?
Nathan peaked in 2004 with 14,633 babies registered that year.
Is Nathan a boy or girl name?
Nathan is predominantly a boys' name — over 90% of Nathans in registered births are male.
How long has Nathan been recorded?
Nathan appears in birth records across 146 years — from 1880 through 2025.