📅 Since 1880🏆 141 years in top 1000.93% of births at peak
How to pronounce Samuel
SAH·MOO·EL
/ˈsɑ.ˈmuː.ˈɛl/ · stress on SAH · 2 syllables
“His name is God”
English origin · Boy name
What does Samuel mean and where does it come from?
The name Samuel (Hebrew: שמואל) has its roots in the Hebrew Bible, being borne by a key prophet and judge in Israel. This name has been first recorded in the Old Testament, where Samuel is known for anointing the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. The name has historically been used in vario
Cultural significance
Samuel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of his name is god.
Holding steady — currently #19 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#19 · Top 0.01%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#19
8,019
stable · -5% births
2022
#19
8,414
▲ up 4 · -2% births
2021
#23
8,573
▲ up 2 · +1% births
2020
#25
8,488
▼ down 2 · -22% births
2015
#23
10,865
▲ up 1 · -9% births
2010
#24
11,963
▼ down 3 · -16% births
2005
#21
14,251
▲ up 7 · +1% births
2000
#28
14,171
▲ up 5 · +14% births
1995
#33
12,435
▲ up 12 · +14% births
1990
#45
10,887
▲ up 9 · +55% births
1985
#54
7,005
stable · +16% births
1980
#54
6,013
▲ up 7 · +30% births
1975
#61
4,622
▲ up 1 · +1% births
1970
#62
4,558
▲ up 22 · +4% births
1965
#84
4,396
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Samuel
2022Rank #19
14,251
#45
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Samuel
Samuel has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #17 in 1880. Over 781K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Samuel is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Samuel means "His name is God" — a name rooted in English 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 Samuel?
Samuel is currently ranked #19 in the United States 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 Samuel?
Samuel originates from English tradition. English 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 Samuel?
Samuel is a two-syllable name pronounced S AA1 M UW1 EH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Samuel more of a girl or boy name?
Samuel is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Samuel
For a sister
Samuel & Alice♡
Samuel & Cora♡
Samuel & Daisy♡
Samuel & Eliza♡
For a brother
Samuel & William♡
Samuel & Cora♡
Samuel & Daisy♡
Samuel & Eliza♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#19
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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