A variant of the name Nathan, Nathaniel is of Hebrew origin, meaning “to give” or “gift.” This name was proudly borne by the American writer of the “Scarlet Letter,” Nathaniel Hawthorne. Nathaniel is lyrical, creative, historical. Though a more formal option than its brother Nathan, Nathaniel can also be shortened to Nate, or Nat, and carried with grace.
Nathaniel was ranked #161 in the most popular American names of 2015.