Rising since 1988, #1,906 for boys today.
Popularity of Yechiel since 1959
Babies named Yechiel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 13 |
| 1970s | 91 |
| 1980s | 161 |
| 1990s | 233 |
| 2000s | 433 |
| 2010s | 619 |
| 2020s | 416 |
Meaning & origin
Yechiel is a Hebrew name with deep biblical roots, meaning 'God lives.' Since its first recorded U.S. appearance in 1959, the name has shown a steady upward trajectory, rising gradually since 1988. Its peak year to date is 2025, when it ranked 1906 with an incidence of 1 in 20,830. The name is most concentrated in New York, reflecting its strong association with Orthodox Jewish communities. While still uncommon overall, Yechiel represents a meaningful choice for families seeking a name with religious significance and a long heritage.
Yechiel is a Hebrew name originating from the biblical phrase "Yechi'el" (יְחִיאֵל), meaning "God lives" or "may God live." It appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of several individuals, including a Levite musician and a scribe. The name has been consistently used among Jewish communities, particularly in Ashkenazi traditions, and has seen modest modern usage in Israel and the Diaspora.
Where Yechiel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Yeche, Cheli
Variants: Yechi'el, Yechezkel
Sibling names for Yechiel
Names that share Yechiel's style, for a brother or sister.
