Rising since 1990, #3,379 for boys today.
Popularity of Japheth since 1970
Babies named Japheth per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 125 |
| 1980s | 176 |
| 1990s | 192 |
| 2000s | 327 |
| 2010s | 361 |
| 2020s | 206 |
Meaning & origin
Japheth is a biblical name that has been in consistent but rare use in the United States since at least 1970, when it first appeared in Social Security records. In 2025, the name ranked 3,379 with a frequency of 1 in 50,238 births. Its peak popularity came in 2007, and it has been on a rising trajectory since 1990, suggesting a slow but steady increase in interest. The name sees modest usage in states like Indiana and Pennsylvania. Japheth's strong Old Testament roots and unique sound make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth.
Japheth is a name from the Hebrew Bible, derived from the root 'pth' meaning 'to open' or 'to enlarge'. In the Book of Genesis, Japheth is one of the three sons of Noah, traditionally considered the ancestor of the peoples of Europe and parts of Asia. The name has been used among Jews, Christians, and Muslims for centuries, though it has never been common in the English-speaking world.
Where Japheth is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jape
Sibling names for Japheth
Names that share Japheth's style, for a brother or sister.
