What does Eli mean and where does it come from?
The name Eli comes from the Hebrew name אֵלִי (Eli), which is often associated with Hebrew scriptures. Although traditionally a masculine name, it has gained popularity as a female name in modern times. Notable people with variations of this name include Eli Wallach, an American actor.
Cultural significance
Eli has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god is my salvation.
Peak popularity
Reached #43 in 2013 — currently #79 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Eli?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Eli?
Eli works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Eli Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Eli Rose
Floral · soft ending
Eli Claire
French influence · crisp
Eli Jane
Literary · strong
Eli Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Eli right now?
Declining — down 10 spots — currently #79 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #79 | 4,106 | ▼ down 10 · -13% births |
| 2022 | #69 | 4,702 | ▼ down 5 · -4% births |
| 2021 | #64 | 4,910 | ▼ down 4 · -6% births |
| 2020 | #60 | 5,214 | ▼ down 7 · -27% births |
| 2015 | #53 | 7,139 | ▲ up 12 · +9% births |
| 2010 | #65 | 6,560 | ▲ up 87 · +144% births |
| 2005 | #152 | 2,684 | ▲ up 77 · +82% births |
| 2000 | #229 | 1,472 | ▲ up 77 · +71% births |
| 1995 | #306 | 862 | ▲ up 53 · +29% births |
| 1990 | #359 | 667 | ▼ down 17 · +20% births |
| 1985 | #342 | 557 | ▲ up 2 · +4% births |
| 1980 | #344 | 537 | ▲ up 81 · +58% births |
| 1975 | #425 | 340 | ▲ up 105 · +47% births |
| 1970 | #530 | 232 | ▲ up 158 · +98% births |
| 1965 | #688 | 117 | — |
The story of Eli
Eli has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #43 in 2013. More than 132,881 babies have been named Eli since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #177 in 1880 to #79 in 2023. Eli is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Eli in 2013:
Eli by decade
Eli peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 721 | |
| 1890s | 492 | |
| 1900s | 483 | |
| 1910s | 1,998 | |
| 1920s | 2,531 | |
| 1930s | 1,591 | |
| 1940s | 1,288 | |
| 1950s | 1,346 | |
| 1960s | 1,322 | |
| 1970s | 3,653 | |
| 1980s | 5,537 | |
| 1990s | 8,665 | |
| 2000s | 28,075 | |
| 2010s ★ | 69,940 | |
| 2020s | 5,239 | |
What are good nicknames for Eli?
Famous people named Eli
E(
Eli (historical figure)
Eli bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Eli?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Eli also consider these
Common questions about the name Eli
What does the name Eli mean?
Eli means "God is my salvation" — 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 Eli?
Eli is currently ranked #79 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 Eli?
Eli 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 Eli?
Eli is a two-syllable name pronounced EH1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Eli more of a girl or boy name?
Eli is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.