Data-driven popularity statistics, SSA rankings, and historical trends for the name Nathaniel.
National Rank (2025)
#140
All-Time Peak Rank
#60 (1998)
Total U.S. Births
287,103
Unisex Distribution99.6% Boy / 0.4% GirlBalance: Overwhelmingly Male
💡 The Nathaniel Vibe: This choice is considered a Modern Trend. A contemporary choice reflecting current cultural naming rhythms and popularity brackets.
📖 The Story Behind Nathaniel
According to SSA data, Nathaniel achieved its highest historical rank of #60 in 1998. Its highest annual registration volume occurred in 2002 with 6,813 babies. Between 2015 and 2025, modern registrations have decreased by 39.4%. Overall, the name has maintained a ranked presence for 146 consecutive years.
📊 Factual Timeline & Current Trajectory (1880 – 2025)
Watch how the absolute registration footprint of the name Nathaniel scaled historically over the last century:
5-Year Trajectory Velocity
Declining
10-Year Decadal Shift Change
-39.4% Decline
18801920196020002025
📈 Popularity Milestones & Volatility
Busiest Year on Record6,813Births in 2002
Years in Top 100
38yrs
Registry Appearance Streak
146Years
Historical VolatilityModerately Volatile
Decade-by-Decade Registration Volumes
1880s:551
1890s:684
1900s:1,143
1910s:4,795
1920s:7,794
1930s:7,411
1940s:9,489
1950s:12,389
1960s:10,191
1970s:19,185
1980s:38,652
1990s:52,577
2000s:64,264
2010s:41,890
2020s:16,088
📐 Sound & Spelling Structure
Phonetic SyllablesNat-han-iel
Letter Count9 Letters
Spelling ComplexityComplex
Linguistic Profile Narrative: Longer than 92.2% of SSA names. Starts with N, a letter used by only 3.6% of SSA names.
🛠️ Rhythm & Cadence Engine
Need a middle name or matching choice that pairs cleanly with Nathaniel? Enter a surname or older sibling name below to test structural meter and syllable cohesion:
BabyNameAnalytics