Choosing a name for your baby is a significant decision, one that carries weight and meaning. The name Raphael is a classic and resonant choice, steeped in history and carrying a powerful meaning. This article delves into the popularity of Raphael, exploring its origins, variations, and sibling name pairings to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your child.
(Image of the name Raphael in stylized text)
Raphael Name Popularity
Just how popular is the name Raphael? The data reveals a fascinating journey through time.
Here’s a glimpse at the name’s ranking and frequency over the years:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 563 | 6 | 0.0017% |
| 1911 | 519 | 10 | 0.0027% |
| 1912 | 675 | 13 | 0.0026% |
| 1913 | 643 | 20 | 0.0035% |
| 1914 | 535 | 51 | 0.0073% |
| 1915 | 598 | 56 | 0.0062% |
| 1916 | 591 | 57 | 0.0059% |
| 1917 | 706 | 39 | 0.0039% |
| 1918 | 659 | 52 | 0.0048% |
| 1919 | 618 | 61 | 0.0058% |
| 1920 | 763 | 40 | 0.0036% |
| 1921 | 744 | 44 | 0.0038% |
| 1922 | 599 | 80 | 0.0072% |
| 1923 | 719 | 47 | 0.0042% |
| 1924 | 708 | 49 | 0.0042% |
| 1925 | 704 | 47 | 0.0042% |
| 1926 | 708 | 45 | 0.0041% |
| 1927 | 837 | 31 | 0.0028% |
| 1928 | 653 | 56 | 0.0052% |
| 1929 | 714 | 42 | 0.0041% |
| 1930 | 646 | 56 | 0.0054% |
| 1931 | 687 | 43 | 0.0044% |
| 1932 | 867 | 22 | 0.0022% |
| 1933 | 778 | 27 | 0.0029% |
| 1934 | 871 | 21 | 0.0022% |
| 1935 | 786 | 28 | 0.0029% |
| 1936 | 662 | 41 | 0.0043% |
| 1937 | 783 | 27 | 0.0027% |
| 1938 | 982 | 15 | 0.0015% |
| 1939 | 763 | 28 | 0.0028% |
| 1940 | 845 | 23 | 0.0022% |
| 1941 | 963 | 15 | 0.0013% |
| 1942 | 837 | 25 | 0.002% |
| 1943 | 883 | 22 | 0.0017% |
| 1944 | 1,066 | 11 | 0.0009% |
| 1945 | 721 | 36 | 0.003% |
| 1946 | 859 | 25 | 0.0017% |
| 1947 | 822 | 35 | 0.0021% |
| 1948 | 791 | 36 | 0.0023% |
| 1949 | 924 | 24 | 0.0015% |
| 1950 | 869 | 27 | 0.0017% |
| 1951 | 889 | 28 | 0.0017% |
| 1952 | 784 | 41 | 0.0023% |
| 1953 | 874 | 31 | 0.0018% |
| 1954 | 723 | 60 | 0.0033% |
| 1955 | 753 | 52 | 0.0028% |
| 1956 | 751 | 54 | 0.0029% |
| 1957 | 772 | 53 | 0.0028% |
| 1958 | 767 | 54 | 0.0029% |
| 1959 | 755 | 59 | 0.0031% |
| 1960 | 773 | 56 | 0.003% |
| 1961 | 735 | 65 | 0.0034% |
| 1962 | 737 | 65 | 0.0035% |
| 1963 | 763 | 57 | 0.0032% |
| 1964 | 747 | 61 | 0.0035% |
| 1965 | 785 | 47 | 0.0029% |
| 1966 | 703 | 69 | 0.0044% |
| 1967 | 684 | 76 | 0.005% |
| 1968 | 666 | 78 | 0.0052% |
| 1969 | 654 | 102 | 0.0066% |
| 1970 | 628 | 122 | 0.0077% |
| 1971 | 622 | 130 | 0.0087% |
| 1972 | 610 | 123 | 0.009% |
| 1973 | 589 | 138 | 0.0106% |
| 1974 | 638 | 113 | 0.0087% |
| 1975 | 609 | 128 | 0.01% |
| 1976 | 618 | 130 | 0.0101% |
| 1977 | 609 | 142 | 0.0105% |
| 1978 | 641 | 121 | 0.009% |
| 1979 | 682 | 109 | 0.0077% |
| 1980 | 677 | 116 | 0.0079% |
| 1981 | 650 | 122 | 0.0083% |
| 1982 | 628 | 140 | 0.0094% |
| 1983 | 633 | 132 | 0.0089% |
| 1984 | 587 | 158 | 0.0106% |
| 1985 | 539 | 217 | 0.0143% |
| 1986 | 533 | 229 | 0.0152% |
| 1987 | 572 | 206 | 0.0135% |
| 1988 | 522 | 263 | 0.0169% |
| 1989 | 539 | 276 | 0.0171% |
| 1990 | 464 | 408 | 0.0246% |
| 1991 | 524 | 325 | 0.0199% |
| 1992 | 583 | 262 | 0.0164% |
| 1993 | 631 | 219 | 0.014% |
| 1994 | 645 | 216 | 0.0141% |
| 1995 | 666 | 203 | 0.0135% |
| 1996 | 636 | 222 | 0.0148% |
| 1997 | 616 | 234 | 0.0158% |
| 1998 | 681 | 202 | 0.0135% |
| 1999 | 649 | 219 | 0.0146% |
| 2000 | 635 | 244 | 0.016% |
| 2001 | 689 | 212 | 0.0141% |
| 2002 | 683 | 222 | 0.0148% |
| 2003 | 719 | 208 | 0.0137% |
| 2004 | 669 | 256 | 0.0168% |
| 2005 | 661 | 277 | 0.0181% |
| 2006 | 688 | 277 | 0.0177% |
| 2007 | 695 | 287 | 0.0182% |
| 2008 | 611 | 364 | 0.0236% |
| 2009 | 617 | 362 | 0.0242% |
| 2010 | 656 | 320 | 0.0222% |
| 2011 | 661 | 306 | 0.0215% |
| 2012 | 624 | 336 | 0.0236% |
| 2013 | 600 | 368 | 0.0258% |
| 2014 | 591 | 405 | 0.0278% |
| 2015 | 527 | 492 | 0.0338% |
| 2016 | 530 | 502 | 0.0348% |
| 2017 | 519 | 501 | 0.0359% |
| 2018 | 527 | 480 | 0.0349% |
| 2019 | 508 | 503 | 0.0372% |
| 2020 | 526 | 491 | 0.0386% |
| 2021 | 538 | 507 | 0.0415% |
| 2022 | 486 | 595 | 0.0451% |
| 2023 | 449 | 658 | 0.0508% |
The data, sourced from SSA.gov, reveals a gradual climb in popularity for Raphael, particularly in recent years. The name is currently experiencing a surge in use, indicating a renewed appreciation for this timeless moniker. The popularity data from the District of Columbia shows a sporadic but present usage throughout the years, mirroring the overall trend of the name.
(Chart of Raphael’s popularity over time, specifically highlighting the District of Columbia)
Meaning and Origin
The name Raphael boasts Hebrew origins, carrying the profound meaning "God heals." This powerful association lends the name a sense of strength, compassion, and divine connection. In religious contexts, Raphael is often associated with the archangel Raphael, known for his healing abilities. This further solidifies the name’s connection to well-being and restoration.
Variations of Raphael
Exploring variations of a name can be a way to honor its roots while adding a unique twist. Here are some variations of Raphael:
- Rafael: (Spanish, Portuguese) – God heals
- Rafaelle: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Rafaello: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Rafaelo: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Rafal: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Rafe: (Scandinavian) – Wolf counsel (While not a direct variation in meaning, it shares a similar sound)
- Rafel: (Spanish) – Healing God
- Rafello: (Spanish) – Healing God
- Raffael: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Raffaello: (Spanish) – Healing God
- Raphaello: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Raphello: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Ravel: (Hebrew) – Healing God
- Falito: (Hebrew) – Healing God
Names That Sound Like Raphael
If you love the sound of Raphael but want to explore similar-sounding options, consider these:
- Raffaelo
Sibling Names
Choosing sibling names that complement each other can create a harmonious feel within a family. For a child named Raphael, consider these sibling names:
- Samuel: Meaning "Name of God," sharing a similar Hebrew origin and religious significance.
Ultimately, the best name for your child is a personal decision. Consider the meaning, origin, popularity, and sound of Raphael to determine if it resonates with you and your family. The name Raphael is a strong and meaningful choice, offering a timeless appeal and a connection to healing and divine power.
Data via SSA.gov.