Rising since 1985, #2,363 for boys today.
Popularity of Naftali since 1951
Babies named Naftali per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 28 |
| 1960s | 36 |
| 1970s | 124 |
| 1980s | 189 |
| 1990s | 253 |
| 2000s | 436 |
| 2010s | 550 |
| 2020s | 408 |
Meaning & origin
Naftali is a biblical name with a distinct meaning and history. It entered U.S. records in 1951 and has seen a gradual rise in use, particularly since 1985. Its peak year was 2018, and it remains a modestly used name, most common in New Jersey and New York. The name's trajectory indicates growing interest, likely due to its strong biblical roots and familiar nickname options like Tali. For parents seeking a name with deep heritage and a unique but recognized sound, Naftali offers a solid choice grounded in tradition.
Naftali is a Hebrew name from the Bible. It derives from the Hebrew root "naftal" meaning "to wrestle" or "to twist." In the Book of Genesis, Naftali is the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah; Rachel named him, saying "I have wrestled with my sister and have prevailed." The name has been used by Jewish families for centuries and is sometimes anglicized as Naphtali.
Where Naftali is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Naft, Tali
Variants: Naphtali
Sibling names for Naftali
Names that share Naftali's style, for a brother or sister.
