What does Saul mean and where does it come from?
Though traditionally a male name, Saul can be used as a feminine name in modern contexts. The name is of Hebrew origin, originating from the Old Testament where King Saul was the first king of Israel. The name carries a connotation of longing or desire, reflecting the act of prayer or request. It ha
Cultural significance
Saul has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of asked for, prayed for.
Peak popularity
Reached #557 in 2025 — currently #557 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Saul?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Saul?
Saul works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Saul Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Saul John
One syllable · timeless choice
Saul Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Saul Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Saul Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Saul Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Saul right now?
Holding steady — currently #557 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #557 | 535 | ▲ up 2 · +1% births |
| 2024 | #559 | 531 | ▲ up 9 · +3% births |
| 2023 | #568 | 515 | ▼ down 55 · -11% births |
| 2022 | #513 | 581 | ▲ up 43 · +13% births |
| 2021 | #556 | 513 | ▲ up 12617 · +8450% births |
| 2000 | #13173 | 6 | ▼ down 2952 · -14% births |
| 1990 | #10221 | 7 | ▼ down 1871 |
| 1985 | #8350 | 7 | ▲ up 2087 · +40% births |
| 1980 | #10437 | 5 | — |
The story of Saul
Saul is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1980. A total of 40,667 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #10437 in 1980 to #568 in 2023. Saul is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Saul in 2025:
Saul by decade
Saul peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 87 | |
| 1890s | 115 | |
| 1900s | 245 | |
| 1910s | 1,662 | |
| 1920s | 1,997 | |
| 1930s | 1,234 | |
| 1940s | 973 | |
| 1950s | 1,241 | |
| 1960s | 1,520 | |
| 1970s | 2,713 | |
| 1980s | 4,146 | |
| 1990s | 7,411 | |
| 2000s ★ | 10,541 | |
| 2010s | 6,306 | |
| 2020s | 1,542 | |
What are good nicknames for Saul?
What names sound and feel like Saul?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Saul also consider these
How is Saul written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Saul
What does the name Saul mean?
Saul means "asked for, prayed for" — 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 Saul?
Saul is currently ranked #568 as a baby 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 Saul?
Saul 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.
How do you pronounce the name Saul?
Saul is a one-syllable name pronounced SAWL. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Saul sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Saul flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Saul ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.