Elias, a captivating variant of Elijah, exudes both religious significance and undeniable style. This name carries ancient charm while maintaining a modern appeal that many other names aspire to. Elias is a strong choice for parents seeking a name with depth and character.
While not overtly religious, Elias possesses a strong connection to faith. Its meaning, "my God is Yahweh," reflects a deep-rooted belief. The name also appears in religious contexts, associated with saints, bishops, and martyrs within Catholicism. This historical and religious connection adds a layer of gravitas to the name.
The sound of Elias distinguishes it from other popular names. Its polished "-s" ending echoes the sophistication of James, yet it retains a sense of wildness and untapped potential. It’s a name that hasn’t been overused, preserving its unique appeal.
Elias fits seamlessly into contemporary naming trends. Its starts with a vowel, aligning with the popularity of names like Ethan, Aiden, and Owen. Furthermore, it shares a connection to nature as Mount Saint Elias is a majestic peak straddling the Alaska-Canada border. This geographical link adds another dimension to the name’s appeal, connecting it to strength and natural beauty.
One of the most compelling reasons to consider Elias is its relationship to the popular name Eli. Elias provides an opportunity to embrace the trendiness of Eli without succumbing to its widespread use. It offers the handsome nickname "Eli" as a charming and familiar option.
Elias Name Popularity
The popularity of Elias has seen a dramatic rise in recent years. Here’s a detailed look at its ranking and usage:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 439 | 12 | 0.0034% |
| 1950 | 530 | 121 | 0.0075% |
| 1990 | 360 | 628 | 0.0379% |
| 2000 | 242 | 1,375 | 0.09% |
| 2010 | 141 | 2,820 | 0.1957% |
| 2020 | 54 | 5,835 | 0.4584% |
| 2023 | 36 | 7,003 | 0.5411% |
As the data indicates, Elias has steadily climbed the ranks, experiencing a significant surge in popularity since the late 20th century. In 2023, it reached an impressive rank of 36, with over 7,000 births, representing 0.5411% of all male births.
Note: Data via SSA.gov.
The District of Columbia also shows the name’s presence with a unique trend over the years, showcasing local favor.
Names Similar to Elias
If Elias resonates with you, here are some names that share a similar style or meaning:
- Diminutives: Eli, Elia, Elis, Ellice, Ellis
- Variants: Eelia, Elian, Elijah, Elisha, Eliso, Elliss, Elois, Elyas, Ilias
- Sound-Alikes: Elliot, Ellsworth, Elsdon, Elston, Silas, Tobias
- Similar Names: Daniel, David, Ezekiel, Ezra, Jeremiah, Jonah, Micah, Noah, Samuel, Timothy
Sibling Names for Elias
Parents who chose the name Elias also selected these names for their other children:
- Corey
- Gaige
- Sirius
- Azaiah
- Genesis
- Eleanor
- Henry
- John
- Gabriel
- Lucas
Elias’s appeal lies in its blend of tradition and modernity, making it a distinctive and meaningful choice for your son. Its religious roots, stylish sound, and rising popularity solidify its place as a top contender in the world of baby names.