Elija is a variant of the name Elijah, which originates from the Hebrew name 'אֵלִיָּהוּ' (Eliyahu). Elijah is a prophet in the Hebrew Bible who defended the worship of Yahweh over that of the Canaanite deity Baal. The name has been widely used in many cultures and has several variations including E
Cultural significance
Elija has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of yahweh is my god.
Peak popularity
Reached #1100 in 1889 — currently #4926 in the US.
Declining — down 25 spots — currently #4926 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#4926 · Top 3.6%
1915
1930
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#4926
20
▼ down 25
2022
#4901
20
▼ down 1143 · -31% births
2021
#3758
29
▲ up 629 · +32% births
2020
#4387
22
▼ down 1574 · -48% births
2015
#2813
42
▲ up 14
2010
#2827
42
▼ down 18 · +11% births
2005
#2809
38
▲ up 416 · +46% births
2000
#3225
26
▲ up 649 · +63% births
1995
#3874
16
▲ up 2596 · +129% births
1990
#6470
7
▼ down 1724 · -12% births
1985
#4746
8
▼ down 564 · -11% births
1980
#4182
9
▼ down 99 · +80% births
1930
#4083
5
▼ down 1407 · -44% births
1915
#2676
9
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Elija
1915Rank #2676
42
#3977
↗Rising
1915 - 202314 years
The story of Elija
Elija has been a beloved American name for over 135 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1889. With 1,067 total births recorded, Elija remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2676 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #4926 in 2023.
Elija means "Yahweh is my God" — 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 Elija?
Elija 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 Elija?
Elija 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 Elija?
Elija is a three-syllable name pronounced IY1 L AY0 Y AA1. 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 Elija?
Elija pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Hebrew heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Elija
For a sister
Elija & Anna♡
Elija & Mary♡
Elija & Ruth♡
Elija & Abigail♡
For a brother
Elija & Reubin♡
Elija & Noah♡
Elija & Benjamin♡
Elija & Levi♡
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