What does Daniel mean and where does it come from?
Daniel is of Hebrew origin (דָּנִיֵּאל), historically a male name, but increasingly used for females in modern cultures. It signifies 'God is my judge'. The name has biblical roots, being prominent in the story of Daniel in the lion's den. Its popularity spans many cultures, especially in English-sp
Cultural significance
Daniel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #5 in 1985 — currently #17 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Daniel?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Daniel?
Daniel works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Daniel Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Daniel Rose
Floral · soft ending
Daniel Mae
Sweet · timeless
Daniel Claire
French influence · crisp
Daniel Jane
Literary · strong
Daniel Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Daniel right now?
Holding steady — currently #17 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #17 | 8,391 | ▼ down 3 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #14 | 9,109 | ▲ up 2 |
| 2021 | #16 | 9,152 | ▼ down 2 · -3% births |
| 2020 | #14 | 9,419 | ▼ down 2 · -30% births |
| 2015 | #12 | 13,506 | ▼ down 4 · -15% births |
| 2010 | #8 | 15,843 | ▼ down 1 · -22% births |
| 2005 | #7 | 20,211 | ▲ up 2 · -9% births |
| 2000 | #9 | 22,319 | stable · -16% births |
| 1995 | #9 | 26,722 | ▼ down 4 · -21% births |
| 1990 | #5 | 33,818 | stable · -12% births |
| 1985 | #5 | 38,542 | ▲ up 6 · +29% births |
| 1980 | #11 | 29,894 | stable · +25% births |
| 1975 | #11 | 23,822 | ▲ up 8 · +1% births |
| 1970 | #19 | 23,530 | ▼ down 2 · -5% births |
| 1965 | #17 | 24,846 | — |
The story of Daniel
Daniel has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #5 in 1985, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 1947K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #25 in 1880 to #17 in 2023. Daniel is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Daniel in 1985:
Daniel by decade
Daniel peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5,679 | |
| 1890s | 5,185 | |
| 1900s | 5,048 | |
| 1910s | 24,068 | |
| 1920s | 43,678 | |
| 1930s | 48,198 | |
| 1940s | 113,100 | |
| 1950s | 244,125 | |
| 1960s | 242,938 | |
| 1970s | 246,105 | |
| 1980s ★ | 348,036 | |
| 1990s | 273,379 | |
| 2000s | 204,228 | |
| 2010s | 133,713 | |
| 2020s | 9,435 | |
What are good nicknames for Daniel?
What names sound and feel like Daniel?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Daniel also consider these
How is Daniel written in other languages?
Macedonian), Դանիէլ
Armenian), დანიელ (Georgian), Δανιηλ (Ancient Greek
What are the girl versions of Daniel?
Common questions about the name Daniel
What does the name Daniel mean?
Daniel means "Hebrew" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Daniel?
Daniel is currently ranked #17 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Daniel?
Daniel originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Daniel?
Daniel is a two-syllable name pronounced D AE1 N IY0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Daniel more of a girl or boy name?
Daniel is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.