Holding steady.
Popularity of Otniel since 1980
Babies named Otniel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 12 |
| 1990s | 36 |
| 2000s | 30 |
| 2010s | 40 |
| 2020s | 11 |
Meaning & origin
Otniel is a rare biblical name with deep roots in Hebrew tradition. According to U.S. Social Security data, the name first appeared in records in 1980 and has since remained infrequent, never entering the top 1000. Its peak year was 2018, when it was given to a handful of boys. The name's trajectory is stable, meaning it has not seen sharp rises or declines in use. While Otniel does not appear among the top states by usage, it has been chosen by families looking for a distinctive name with strong religious and historical significance. As a variant of Othniel, the first Judge of Israel, it carries a legacy of leadership and faith.
Otniel is the English form of the Hebrew name Othniel, possibly meaning 'God is my strength' or 'lion of God.' In the Old Testament, Othniel was the first Judge of Israel, who delivered the Israelites from oppression. The name has remained in occasional use among Jewish families and has been adopted by other religious communities.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ot, Niel
Variants: Othniel
Sibling names for Otniel
Names that share Otniel's style, for a brother or sister.
