Refael

“to heal.” — Associated with the archangel Raphael

Israel origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#5017US 2023

20Births / yr

↑Rising

232All-time births

📅 Since 199300

What does Refael mean and where does it come from?

Refael is a traditional Hebrew name derived from the root 'raphah,' meaning 'to heal.' It is commonly associated with the archangel Raphael, considered a healer in Biblical texts. The name has ancient origins, often documented in religious texts, and remains a popular name in Israel. Variants of the

Cultural significance

Refael has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.

Peak popularity

Reached #4282 in 2019 — currently #5017 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Refael?

Refael works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Refael Grace

How popular is Refael right now?

Rising fast — up 366 spots — currently #5017 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2000–2023#5017 · Top 3.7%

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#5017	20	▲ up 366 · +11% births
2022	#5383	18	▼ down 788 · -18% births
2021	#4595	22	▲ up 315 · +16% births
2020	#4910	19	▲ up 1280 · +36% births
2015	#6190	14	▲ up 1705 · +40% births
2010	#7895	10	▼ down 433
2005	#7462	10	▲ up 1383 · +43% births
2000	#8845	7	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Refael

Best Year2021Rank #4595

Peak Count22

Average Rank#6287

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2000 - 20238 years

The story of Refael

Refael is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1993. With 232 total births recorded, Refael remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8845 in 2000 to #5017 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Refael in 2019:

Liam Noah Oliver William Elijah

Refael by decade

Refael peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1990s	5
2000s	63
2010s ★	145
2020s	19

💎Refael has only 232 total recorded births since 1993 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Refael?

Common

RefRefieRefyEfael

What names sound and feel like Refael?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Refael also consider these

Refoel

Israel · God heals

Rephael

Israel · God has healed

Mekael

Israel · מי כאל

Reniel

Israel · God has been

English · A meaningful name

Esael

English · A meaningful name

Common questions about the name Refael

What does the name Refael mean?

Refael means "Hebrew" — 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 Refael?

Refael 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 Refael?

Refael 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.

Is Refael a common or rare name?

Refael is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

What are good nicknames for Refael?

Refael naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.