Nathan
given by God
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Religion
- Christian
- Gender
- Boy
- Country
- United States
- Pronunciation
- NAY-thun
- Popularity
- falling
Common nicknames
About the name Nathan
Nathan is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "given by God". It is most commonly used in Christian families and is especially popular in United States.
Nathan was the prophet who confronted King David, and the name has been in continuous English use since the Reformation. It is worth distinguishing from Nathaniel, which has a different Hebrew root; Nate serves as the nickname for both. Nathan peaked in the US around 2000 and has been easing down since, which currently makes it familiar without being crowded.
Variants and spellings: Nathaniel, Natan, Nathanael.
Popularity trend: Nathan is used less often now than it was a generation ago, which can make it feel fresh again.
Reviewed by the Babbloom Editorial Team. Read our editorial methodology.
Frequently asked about Nathan
- What does the name Nathan mean?
- Nathan means "given by God". It's a boy name of Hebrew origin, most commonly used in Christian families and popular in United States.
- Where does the name Nathan come from?
- Nathan originates from Hebrew. On Babbloom it's classified in the Christian naming tradition.
- Is Nathan a boy or girl name?
- Nathan is a boy name.