Rising since 2003, #1,634 for boys today.
Popularity of Hansel since 1905
Babies named Hansel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 8 |
| 1910s | 236 |
| 1920s | 394 |
| 1930s | 283 |
| 1940s | 225 |
| 1950s | 179 |
| 1960s | 148 |
| 1970s | 117 |
| 1980s | 209 |
| 1990s | 246 |
| 2000s | 261 |
| 2010s | 684 |
| 2020s | 641 |
Meaning & origin
Hansel, a German diminutive of Hans (John), has been in use in the United States since at least 1905, when it first appeared in Social Security records. The name began a steady rise in popularity starting in 2003, reflecting a broader trend of reintroducing vintage, surname-style, and folkloric names. It reached its peak rank of 1634 in 2025, and its highest number of births occurred in 2021. Hansel has been most popular in New Jersey, Florida, and Texas, areas with significant German-American and Hispanic populations where short, classic names with international flair appeal. While still uncommon, its literary association and simple, friendly sound give it enduring charm. The modern trajectory, rising consistently for over two decades, suggests Hansel may continue to gain favor as parents look for distinctive but accessible names.
Hansel is a German diminutive of Hans, itself a short form of Johannes (John). Johannes derives from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' The name is best known from the fairy tale 'Hansel and Gretel' collected by the Brothers Grimm in the 19th century, which helped popularize it in English-speaking countries.
Where Hansel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Hansi, Hank
Sibling names for Hansel
Names that share Hansel's style, for a brother or sister.
