What does Hillel mean and where does it come from?
Hillel is a Hebrew name famously associated with Hillel the Elder, a noteworthy Jewish scholar who lived in the first century BCE. The name has deep religious and cultural significance within Judaism, emphasizing themes of wisdom, leadership, and the importance of learning. Hillel is sometimes used
Cultural significance
Hillel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to praise.
Peak popularity
Reached #2348 in 1957 — currently #2857 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hillel?
Hillel works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hillel Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hillel Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hillel Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hillel Claire
French influence · crisp
Hillel Jane
Literary · strong
Hillel Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hillel right now?
Falling — down 56 spots — currently #2857 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2857 | 44 | ▼ down 56 · -4% births |
| 2022 | #2801 | 46 | ▲ up 134 · +10% births |
| 2021 | #2935 | 42 | ▲ up 612 · +40% births |
| 2020 | #3547 | 30 | ▲ up 450 · +15% births |
| 2015 | #3997 | 26 | ▲ up 124 · +8% births |
| 2010 | #4121 | 24 | ▼ down 283 |
| 2005 | #3838 | 24 | ▼ down 37 · +14% births |
| 2000 | #3801 | 21 | ▼ down 332 · +11% births |
| 1995 | #3469 | 19 | ▼ down 374 · -5% births |
| 1990 | #3095 | 20 | ▼ down 225 · +18% births |
| 1985 | #2870 | 17 | ▼ down 100 |
| 1980 | #2770 | 17 | ▲ up 760 · +70% births |
| 1975 | #3530 | 10 | ▼ down 348 |
| 1970 | #3182 | 10 | ▲ up 982 · +100% births |
| 1965 | #4164 | 5 | — |
The story of Hillel
Hillel entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 1,255 total births recorded, Hillel remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3540 in 1930 to #2857 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Hillel in 1957:
Hillel by decade
Hillel peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 14 | |
| 1930s | 46 | |
| 1940s | 33 | |
| 1950s | 73 | |
| 1960s | 77 | |
| 1970s | 115 | |
| 1980s | 150 | |
| 1990s | 161 | |
| 2000s | 248 | |
| 2010s ★ | 303 | |
| 2020s | 30 | |
💎With 1,255 total births, Hillel is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Hillel?
Famous people named Hillel
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Hillel (historical community leader)
Hillel led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Hillel?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hillel also consider these
How is Hillel written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Hillel
What does the name Hillel mean?
Hillel means "to praise" — 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 Hillel?
Hillel 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 Hillel?
Hillel 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 Hillel?
Hillel is a two-syllable name pronounced HH IH2 L EH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hillel a common or rare name?
Hillel is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.