Rising since 2021, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Jefte since 1988
Babies named Jefte per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 13 |
| 2000s | 71 |
| 2010s | 48 |
| 2020s | 20 |
Meaning & origin
Jefte is an extremely rare masculine name that first appeared on U.S. records in 1988. Its peak year came in 2007, when it saw its highest usage, though it remained uncommon. Since 2021, the name has been on a gentle rise in popularity, though it remains a distinctive choice. The name is a spelling variant of the biblical Jephthah, but its use is not confined to any particular religious community. With an estimated 1-in-341,615 frequency in 2025, parents choosing Jefte are opting for a name with ancient roots and a nearly blank canvas in terms of modern cultural associations.
Jefte is a rare variant of the biblical name Jephthah, which appears in the Old Testament as a judge of Israel. The original Hebrew name Yiftach (יפתח) is of uncertain etymology, though it is often linked to the root meaning 'to open.' The spelling Jefte is a French-influenced form, occasionally used in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries. The name saw limited use in the United States beginning in the late 20th century.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jef
Sibling names for Jefte
Names that share Jefte's style, for a brother or sister.
