What does Elihu mean and where does it come from?
Elihu (אֵלִיהוּ) is a biblical name found in the Old Testament. It is most notably borne by a character in the Book of Job, who is known for his wisdom. The name has seen a resurgence in modern times, particularly in Jewish communities and among those seeking biblical names. Elihu symbolizes an indi
Cultural significance
Elihu has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of my god is he..
Peak popularity
Reached #558 in 1881 — currently #6216 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Elihu?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Elihu?
Elihu works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Elihu Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Elihu John
One syllable · timeless choice
Elihu Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Elihu Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Elihu Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Elihu Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Elihu right now?
Falling — down 714 spots — currently #6216 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #6216 | 14 | ▼ down 714 · -18% births |
| 2024 | #5502 | 17 | ▲ up 12 |
| 2023 | #5514 | 17 | ▲ up 718 · +21% births |
| 2022 | #6232 | 14 | ▼ down 617 · -12% births |
| 2021 | #5615 | 16 | ▼ down 622 · -11% births |
| 2020 | #4993 | 18 | ▲ up 514 · +13% births |
| 2015 | #5507 | 16 | ▼ down 28 |
| 2010 | #5479 | 16 | ▼ down 653 · -6% births |
| 2005 | #4826 | 17 | ▲ up 1105 · +55% births |
| 2000 | #5931 | 11 | ▲ up 6 · +22% births |
| 1995 | #5937 | 9 | ▼ down 1958 · -36% births |
| 1990 | #3979 | 14 | ▲ up 2590 · +180% births |
| 1985 | #6569 | 5 | ▼ down 2316 · -17% births |
| 1970 | #4253 | 6 | ▼ down 1034 · -14% births |
| 1955 | #3219 | 7 | — |
The story of Elihu
Elihu has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 1,157 total births recorded, Elihu remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #861 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #5514 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Elihu in 1881:
Elihu by decade
Elihu peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 27 | |
| 1890s | 11 | |
| 1900s | 7 | |
| 1910s | 154 | |
| 1920s ★ | 178 | |
| 1930s | 92 | |
| 1940s | 71 | |
| 1950s | 56 | |
| 1960s | 30 | |
| 1970s | 41 | |
| 1980s | 57 | |
| 1990s | 101 | |
| 2000s | 158 | |
| 2010s | 156 | |
| 2020s | 49 | |
💎With 1,157 total births, Elihu is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Elihu?
What names sound and feel like Elihu?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Elihu also consider these
How is Elihu written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Elihu
What does the name Elihu mean?
Elihu means "My God is He." — a name rooted in Israel 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 Elihu?
Elihu is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Elihu?
Elihu originates from Israel tradition. Israel 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 Elihu?
Elihu is a three-syllable name pronounced EL-ih-oo. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Elihu?
Elihu pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Israel heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.