What does Neftali mean and where does it come from?
Neftali (נַפְתָּלִי) is a name of Hebrew origin that means 'my struggle' or 'wrestling'. It is found in the Bible as one of the sons of Jacob and Leah. Although traditionally a male name, it has seen usage in recent years as a unisex name. Notable mentions include Neftali Ricardo, a known artist.
Cultural significance
Neftali has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #4708 in 1997 — currently #12815 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Neftali?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Neftali?
Neftali works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Neftali Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Neftali John
One syllable · timeless choice
Neftali Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Neftali Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Neftali Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Neftali Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Neftali right now?
Falling — down 11006 spots — currently #12815 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #12815 | 7 | ▼ down 11006 · -98% births |
| 2023 | #1809 | 391 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #1814 | 371 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2021 | #1819 | 341 | ▲ up 10641 · +4163% births |
| 2010 | #12460 | 8 | ▼ down 5569 · -53% births |
| 2005 | #6891 | 17 | ▼ down 1140 · -11% births |
| 2000 | #5751 | 19 | ▲ up 1429 · +58% births |
| 1995 | #7180 | 12 | ▲ up 1526 · +33% births |
| 1990 | #8706 | 9 | — |
The story of Neftali
Neftali is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1986. With 2,473 total births recorded, Neftali remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8706 in 1990 to #1809 in 2023. Neftali is used for both genders: 15% female and 85% male.
Names that peaked alongside Neftali in 1997:
Neftali by decade
Neftali peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 41 | |
| 1960s | 118 | |
| 1970s | 225 | |
| 1980s | 292 | |
| 1990s | 562 | |
| 2000s ★ | 764 | |
| 2010s | 448 | |
| 2020s | 101 | |
💎With 2,473 total births, Neftali is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Neftali?
Famous people named Neftali
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Neftali (historical community leader)
Neftali 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 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Neftali?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Neftali also consider these
Common questions about the name Neftali
What does the name Neftali mean?
Neftali 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 Neftali?
Neftali is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Neftali?
Neftali 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 Neftali?
Neftali is a three-syllable name pronounced NEFT-AH-lee. 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 Neftali?
Neftali 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.