A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Reuel since 1893
Babies named Reuel per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2025, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Reuel's real moment was 1893.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 16 |
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 81 |
| 1920s | 120 |
| 1930s | 83 |
| 1940s | 62 |
| 1950s | 72 |
| 1960s | 38 |
| 1970s | 39 |
| 1980s | 41 |
| 1990s | 51 |
| 2000s | 77 |
| 2010s | 122 |
| 2020s | 151 |
Meaning & origin
Reuel is a biblical name that has never achieved widespread popularity in the United States, despite its ancient credentials. First recorded in 1893, the name reached its peak popularity that same year, reflecting a very low baseline of usage. By 2025, Reuel ranks 3314th, with approximately 1 in 48,802 newborn boys receiving the name. The name has seen a gradual upward trend since 1995, suggesting a revival among parents seeking distinctive Hebrew names. Its usage is geographically concentrated, with Texas being the top state for the name in recent years. Although it remains obscure, Reuel offers a rare, historically grounded alternative to more common Old Testament names.
Reuel is a name of Hebrew origin, appearing in the Bible as the father-in-law of Moses, also identified with Jethro. The name is composed of elements 'reha' meaning 'friend' and 'El' meaning 'God', thus often interpreted as 'friend of God'. Some scholars propose alternative derivations from other Semitic roots, but the biblical association remains the most widely accepted. Despite its ancient roots, Reuel has remained rare in the United States, with only occasional usage since the late 19th century.
Where Reuel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rue, El, Reu
Variants: Ruel, Reu'el
Sibling names for Reuel
Names that share Reuel's style, for a brother or sister.
