Declining since 1994, #1,492 for boys today.
Popularity of Efrain since 1920
Babies named Efrain per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 109 |
| 1930s | 180 |
| 1940s | 331 |
| 1950s | 1,010 |
| 1960s | 1,578 |
| 1970s | 2,368 |
| 1980s | 2,786 |
| 1990s | 3,781 |
| 2000s | 3,563 |
| 2010s | 2,028 |
| 2020s | 823 |
Meaning & origin
Efrain, the Spanish form of the biblical Ephraim, has been a consistent presence among Hispanic families in the United States. It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1920 and saw its highest usage in 1993, when it ranked 1492nd. Since then, its popularity has gradually declined, though it remains a familiar choice, particularly in states like Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. The name carries a strong biblical heritage, associated with the concept of fruitfulness, yet it maintains a distinct cultural identity within Spanish-speaking communities. With 1 in 14,475 boys receiving the name in 2025, Efrain balances tradition and familiarity, making it a solid choice for those seeking a name with deep roots and cultural resonance.
Efrain is the Spanish adaptation of Ephraim, a name of Hebrew origin from the Bible. Ephraim was the second son of Joseph and Asenath, and the name is traditionally explained as meaning 'fruitful' (from the Hebrew 'parah'). The name has been widely used among Spanish-speaking communities, particularly in Latin America, where it has been a familiar given name since the early 20th century.
Where Efrain is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Efe, Effy
Sibling names for Efrain
Names that share Efrain's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Efrain
Names whose popularity has moved with Efrain's over the last 50 years.
