What does Othniel mean and where does it come from?
Othniel (עֹתנִיאֵל) is a Biblical name, first appearing in the Book of Judges as a notable leader in Israel who delivered the Israelites from oppression. The name has ancient roots and is still used in various forms in Hebrew-speaking communities. It reflects a strong religious or spiritual connotat
Cultural significance
Othniel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #2163 in 2018 — currently #3325 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Othniel?
Othniel works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Othniel Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Othniel Rose
Floral · soft ending
Othniel Mae
Sweet · timeless
Othniel Claire
French influence · crisp
Othniel Jane
Literary · strong
Othniel Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Othniel right now?
Rising fast — up 188 spots — currently #3325 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #3325 | 36 | ▲ up 188 · +9% births |
| 2022 | #3513 | 33 | ▼ down 556 · -21% births |
| 2021 | #2957 | 42 | ▲ up 107 · +14% births |
| 2020 | #3064 | 37 | ▲ up 464 · +19% births |
| 2015 | #3528 | 31 | ▲ up 3621 · +182% births |
| 2010 | #7149 | 11 | ▲ up 1291 · +38% births |
| 2005 | #8440 | 8 | ▼ down 440 · +33% births |
| 1995 | #8000 | 6 | — |
The story of Othniel
Othniel entered American naming records in 1924 and has been in use for over 100 years. With 525 total births recorded, Othniel remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8000 in 1995 to #3325 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Othniel in 2018:
Othniel by decade
Othniel peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 6 | |
| 1980s | 22 | |
| 1990s | 42 | |
| 2000s | 89 | |
| 2010s ★ | 324 | |
| 2020s | 37 | |
💎Othniel has only 525 total recorded births since 1924 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Othniel?
Famous people named Othniel
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Othniel (historical community leader)
Othniel led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
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Othniel (historical figure)
Othniel bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Othniel?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Othniel also consider these
How is Othniel written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Othniel
What does the name Othniel mean?
Othniel 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 Othniel?
Othniel 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 Othniel?
Othniel 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.
Is Othniel a common or rare name?
Othniel is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Othniel a classic or a modern name?
Othniel has Hebrew roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.