Rising since 2000, #5,608 for boys today.
Popularity of Avner since 1921
Babies named Avner per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 6 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 11 |
| 2000s | 81 |
| 2010s | 187 |
| 2020s | 85 |
Meaning & origin
Avner is a biblical Hebrew name that has seen a steady rise in usage in the United States since the year 2000. It first appeared on U.S. records in 1921, but remained uncommon for much of the 20th century. The name reached its peak popularity in 2015, reflecting a broader trend of revived biblical names among modern parents. With a rank of 5,608 in 2025, Avner is still a rare choice, given to roughly 1 in every 106,755 boys. While it has not historically concentrated in any particular U.S. state, its steady upward trajectory suggests growing appeal among families seeking distinctive, traditional Hebrew names. The name carries a strong, clear sound and is easily pronounced in English, contributing to its quiet rise without being subject to trendy spikes.
Avner (אַבְנֵר) is a Hebrew name composed of the elements av (father) and ner (light or lamp). It appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of the commander of King Saul's army (1 Samuel 14:50). The name has been used by Jewish communities for centuries and remains in modest use in Israel and the diaspora.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Avi, Ner, Av
Variants: Abner
Sibling names for Avner
Names that share Avner's style, for a brother or sister.
