Eli Name Meaning

Learn more about the meaning, origin, and popularity of the name Eli.

Fact checked by Sarah ScottFact checked by Sarah Scott

Eli is a Hebrew name that means “high” or “elevated.” It could also mean “my God” when it’s a derivation of other biblical names such as Elijah, Eliezer, and Elisha.

The name was popularized in the United States in the 17th century by the Puritans. Eli was the name of a high priest in the bible. He served as a spiritual guide and trainer to a young prophet named Samuel. Eli is most commonly remembered for the misdeeds of his sons and the curse he and his descendants had to live with, which was to die before reaching old age.

Editor’s Note

Although many baby names are separated by gender, Parents believes that sex does not need to play a role in your name selection process. It’s important to select a name that you feel suits your new baby the best.

How Popular Is the Name Eli?

The name Eli has risen and fallen in popularity a couple of times. It was quite popular in the 1880s when it ranked in the top 200 most popular names for boys. Its popularity saw a decline at the end of the 19th century but increased into the 20th century.

In the early 1970s, Eli witnessed another rise in popularity. In the year 1976, it ranked in the top 400 list of the most popular names for boys in the United States. Its popularity has grown and continues to grow.

Since 2008, the name Eli has ranked as one of the top 100 most popular names for boys in the United States. It achieved peak popularity in the year 2013 when almost 8,000 babies were named Eli. In 2023, Eli ranked as the No. 80 boy’s name in the US.

Name Variations

There aren’t many variations for the name Eli as it’s made up of only three letters and two syllables. Some other common variations include Heli, which is of Latin origin; Eeli, which is Finnish; and Ely, which is English. 

Similar Names

If you like the name Eli, here are some other names you might want to consider that have a similar feel:

Suggested Sibling Names

If you are thinking of naming your baby Eli, here are some sibling names that would pair excellently with the name: 

Famous People Named Eli

Here are some biblical figures and other famous people your baby would share a name with:

• Eli Bebout, Wyoming politician

• Eli Broad, American billionaire and philanthropist

• Eli C. D. Shortridge, third governor of North Dakota

• Eli Langer, Canadian artist

• Eli Manning, American football player and two-time Super Bowl MVP

• Eli Roth, American film director and producer

• Eli Thayer, member of the United States House of Representatives from 1857 to 1861

• Eli Todd Tappan, American educator and author

• Eli Whitney, inventor of the cotton gin 

More Baby Names

Still searching for the perfect baby name? Check out these related baby name lists for even more options:

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Read the original article on Parents.