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Daniel | Meaning, Origin & History | The Name Library

Name Detail

Daniel

Daniel is a masculine given name and a surname of Hebrew origin. It means "God is my judge" and derives from two early biblical figures, primary among them Daniel from the Book of Daniel. It is a common given name for males and also used as a surname, and is the basis for various derived given names and surnames.

Hebrew originJewish traditionBiblicalShort

Meaning

God is my judge

Snapshot

A boy name with 2 syllables. Currently considered popular.

Popularity Over Time

U.S. Data (2000-2023)

Explore how the popularity of Daniel has changed over the last two decades.

Historical Context & Cultural Origin

Daniel is a Hebrew name meaning "God is my judge." It is most famously associated with the biblical prophet Daniel, known for his wisdom and his ordeal in the lion's den. The name has remained popular throughout Western history, often carried by figures of intellect and leadership.

Famous Namesakes

Daniel Radcliffe, Daniel Craig, Daniel Day-Lewis, Daniel Kahneman, Daniel Webster

Nicknames & Variations

Dan, Danny

AI Cultural Insight

Deep dive into history & etymology

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Hebrew

Abel is a biblical first name which may derive from the Hebrew Hebel, itself derived from hevel, or