Declining since 2005, #3,181 for boys today.
Popularity of Gamaliel since 1921
Babies named Gamaliel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 11 |
| 1930s | 6 |
| 1940s | 5 |
| 1950s | 30 |
| 1960s | 53 |
| 1970s | 188 |
| 1980s | 239 |
| 1990s | 330 |
| 2000s | 485 |
| 2010s | 395 |
| 2020s | 208 |
Meaning & origin
Gamaliel is a biblical name that has maintained a low but steady presence in the United States since it first appeared in Social Security records in 1921. Its peak popularity occurred in 2004, but it has since been falling in use, with a trajectory of decline since 2005. In 2025, the name ranked 3,181, with an incidence of roughly 1 in 46,164 male births. The name is most common in Florida and Texas, suggesting some regional preference. As a Hebrew name with strong biblical roots, it appeals to families seeking a distinctive yet traditional religious name. Its rarity gives it a sense of uniqueness without being unfamiliar.
Gamaliel is a Hebrew name derived from גַּמְלִיאֵל (Gamliel), meaning 'God is my reward' or 'reward of God.' In the Hebrew Bible, Gamaliel was a leader of the tribe of Manasseh. In the New Testament, Gamaliel was a respected Pharisee and teacher of the law. The name has been used among Christians and Jews, though it has never been common. It saw modest use in the United States beginning in the early 20th century.
Where Gamaliel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Gamaliel” around the world
Where Gamaliel lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Gam, Gami, Gammy
Variants: Gamaliel, Gamli'el
Sibling names for Gamaliel
Names that share Gamaliel's style, for a brother or sister.
