Rising since 1985, #1,235 for boys today.
Popularity of Eliyahu since 1956
Babies named Eliyahu per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 8 |
| 1960s | 17 |
| 1970s | 106 |
| 1980s | 249 |
| 1990s | 467 |
| 2000s | 775 |
| 2010s | 1,194 |
| 2020s | 845 |
Meaning & origin
Eliyahu is a strong Hebrew name with deep biblical roots, borne by the prophet Elijah. First recorded in U.S. data in 1956, it has seen a steady ascent in usage, rising since 1985 and reaching its peak rank in 2025 at 1235. With a 1-in-10544 incidence, it remains relatively uncommon yet familiar. The name is most popular in New Jersey, New York, and Maryland, reflecting its resonance within Jewish communities. Its direct Hebrew form appeals to parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name with religious significance.
Eliyahu is the Hebrew original form of Elijah, derived from the elements 'El' (God) and 'Yahu' (a shortened form of Yahweh). In the Hebrew Bible, Elijah was a major prophet who performed miracles and was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. The name has been used among Jewish communities for centuries and is also familiar in Christian contexts through the Greek form Elias.
Where Eliyahu is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Eli, Yahu
Sibling names for Eliyahu
Names that share Eliyahu's style, for a brother or sister.
