All about the name

Eli

Male

« Eli is a Hebrew name meaning "my God," often used as a shortened form of Elijah, popularized by figures like Eli the High Priest and inventor Eli Whitney. »

#80 last year

Meaning, origin, history

Elie is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the word "Eli," which means "my God." It is often used as a shortened form of the name Elijah, which also has Hebrew origins and means "the Lord is my God." The name Eli has been popular throughout history, with several notable figures carrying this name. One of the most well-known is Eli the High Priest, who appears in the Old Testament of the Bible. He was the father of Samuel, who later became a prophet. Another famous Eli is Eli Whitney, an American inventor and manufacturer who developed the cotton gin. This invention significantly impacted the economy of the Southern United States during the early 19th century. In literature, Eli has been used as a character name in several works. For example, in the novel "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy, the main character is simply referred to as "the father," but his given name is Eli. Overall, Eli is a strong and meaningful name with a rich history that spans across different cultures and time periods. Its Hebrew origins give it a deep root in religious and historical contexts, while its usage in literature adds a touch of creativity and imagination.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Eli since 1880

Total births
146,165
Total since 1880
Peak year
2012
8,075 births
in 2023
4,081
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-16%
vs previous 5 years