Boy names starting with "Eli" are timeless and steeped in history, often tied to biblical and Hebrew origins. These names carry meanings like "ascended", "high", or "God is my salvation", blending spiritual depth with modern appeal. Popular choices like Eli, Elijah, and Elias rank high on U.S. baby name charts, while lesser-known options such as Elio and Eliezer offer unique alternatives. Here's a quick rundown of 12 top "Eli" names:
- Eli: Simple, sleek, and rich in history.
- Elias: A global favorite with a polished sound.
- Elijah: A top-10 name with deep biblical roots.
- Elliot: A classic with literary ties.
- Elisha: A softer, less common choice.
- Elio: Radiant and inspired by the sun.
- Eliot: A modern, stylish variation.
- Eliezer: Rich in spiritual meaning.
- Elian: Multicultural and vibrant.
- Eliah: A fresh twist on Elijah.
- Elis: Minimalist and rare.
- Eliam: Combines tradition with a modern edge.
Each name offers its own unique charm, whether you're drawn to their historical significance, global popularity, or contemporary sound. "Eli" names continue to resonate with parents for their balance of simplicity and depth.
12 Boy Names Starting with Eli: Meanings, Origins, and Popularity Rankings
1. Eli
The name Eli has its roots in Hebrew, where it means "high" or "ascended." It can also translate to "my God", derived from the Hebrew word el combined with a possessive suffix. In the Old Testament, Eli was a high priest and judge who mentored the prophet Samuel. The name also appears in the New Testament, both in Jesus's genealogy and in His cry from the cross. This rich history adds to its timeless charm.
Eli strikes a balance between modern style and historical significance, making it a popular choice among parents today. Its sleek, vowel-heavy sound aligns with the current trend for short names like Leo and Levi. While traditionally a nickname for longer names such as Elijah or Elias, Eli has firmly established itself as a strong, standalone option.
This name has stood the test of time, appearing on U.S. popularity charts for over 120 years. Famous figures named Eli include Eli Whitney, the inventor of the cotton gin, and Eli Lilly, the founder of the pharmaceutical company bearing his name. Their contributions further enhance the name's legacy.
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2. Elias
Elias, the Greek version of Elijah, translates to "Yahweh is God." This name, tied to the biblical prophet who guided the Israelites back to monotheism, was embraced by early saints. It gained widespread recognition in the 19th century when composer Felix Mendelssohn created his oratorio Elias.
With its deep historical roots, Elias has become a contemporary favorite. Its rise in popularity is striking - climbing from #141 in 2010 to #25 in 2024. In a recent year, over 7,600 boys were named Elias, reflecting a sharp increase throughout the 2010s. Experts often describe the name as:
strong, charismatic, and sleek
qualities that align perfectly with modern naming preferences.
Elias's global appeal adds another layer to its charm. While Elijah remains the more common choice in the U.S., Elias takes the lead in other countries, ranking #1 in Austria and #3 in Germany in 2024. Its use by celebrities further cements its contemporary relevance.
For many parents, Elias offers a polished alternative to the shorter Eli, maintaining the same biblical foundation but with a fuller, more elegant sound. Pronunciations in the U.S. include ee-LIE-us and eh-LEE-us, providing flexibility based on regional preferences. Beyond its biblical and cultural significance, Elias has a literary presence, appearing in works by authors like Thomas Hardy, Sir Walter Scott, and Anthony Trollope. It even makes appearances in modern media, such as The Magnus Archives and Person of Interest.
3. Elijah
Elijah, derived from the Hebrew name Eliyyahu, translates to "Yahweh is my God" or "The Lord is my God." This meaningful name combines El (God) and Yah (a shortened form of Yahweh), making it a profound declaration of faith. Elijah is best known as a 9th-century BCE prophet who stood firm against Baal worship, performed extraordinary miracles, and ascended to heaven in a fiery chariot. Revered in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the name carries deep spiritual significance, making it a meaningful choice for families across various faiths. Its ancient roots and rich history make it a name that resonates even today.
Elijah's journey to modern popularity is equally remarkable. It entered the U.S. top 100 in 1995, broke into the top 50 by 2001, and reached the top 20 by 2010. Since 2016, it has consistently held a spot in the top 10, ranking #8 in 2024 with 0.605% of births. The name even peaked at #4 in both 2020 and 2021, a far cry from its modest position at #135 in 1880.
The early 2000s saw a boost in Elijah’s appeal, partly thanks to cultural influences like actor Elijah Wood, who brought a fresh, modern edge to the name. Parents today are drawn to its unique blend of spiritual depth and contemporary charm. With its vowel-rich sound, Elijah fits seamlessly alongside popular names like Liam and Noah, while the nickname Eli offers a friendly, approachable option. Its variations - such as Elias (Greek), Élie (French), and Ilyas (Arabic) - highlight its versatility and global appeal, making it a timeless yet modern choice for families worldwide.
4. Elliot
Elliot stands out as a classic yet contemporary name with a rich history. Originating from Hebrew and Old French as a diminutive of Elias, it began as a surname in medieval England before becoming a popular first name among 17th-century Puritans.
The name has had its ups and downs in popularity. It reached a low point in 1970, ranking at #677, but has steadily risen since then, landing at #150 in 2022 with 2,530 births in the U.S.. A significant boost came in the 1980s, thanks to Steven Spielberg’s E.T., which introduced the character Elliot to a global audience. More recently, celebrity parents have kept it in the spotlight. In January 2025, Hailie Jade Scott and Evan McClintock named their son Elliot Marshall McClintock, and actor Luke Bilyk chose Elliot Ray Bilyk for his son in 2022.
Parents are drawn to Elliot for its blend of biblical heritage and modern appeal. It carries intellectual depth through its association with literary figures like T.S. Eliot and George Eliot. Plus, its versatility shines with nicknames like Eli, Ell, and Lio, making it a natural match for sibling names like Oliver, Emmett, Charlotte, and Amelia.
Interestingly, Elliot has also emerged as a gender-neutral choice, ranking #944 for girls in 2024. This trend was highlighted when Troian Bellisario and Patrick Adams named their daughter Elliot Rowena Adams in May 2021. With its historical roots, cultural significance, and modern charm, Elliot continues to be a timeless favorite.
5. Elisha
The name Elisha means "God is my salvation", originating from the Hebrew words el (God) and yasha (to be saved). This profound meaning has shaped a legacy that embodies both faith and ingenuity.
In the Old Testament, Elisha followed Elijah as a miracle-working prophet after Elijah's dramatic ascent into heaven in a whirlwind. Beyond its biblical roots, the name has been carried by notable figures like Elisha Otis, the inventor of the elevator safety brake, and Elisha Gray, who famously competed with Alexander Graham Bell over the telephone patent. Even public figures like Eli Manning, whose full name is Elisha Nelson Manning, highlight the name's enduring charm. It’s a name that continues to resonate with parents looking for strength and a sense of salvation.
Currently ranked #847 for boys in the U.S., Elisha provides a sophisticated alternative to the more commonly used Elijah. Name expert Abby Sandel describes it as:
sleek and elegant, yet not overused
. The natural nickname Eli adds to its appeal, making it even more versatile.
Elisha’s charm lies in its unique combination of strength and gentleness. It aligns with the modern trend of soft-sounding boy names ending in vowels - like Noah and Ezra - while staying grounded in deep historical significance. For parents who love biblical names that reflect compassion and selflessness, Elisha offers the perfect mix of timeless tradition and a touch of individuality.
6. Elio
Elio stands out as a name that blends timeless appeal with a modern, vibrant touch.
Meaning "one who has the power of the Sun", Elio exudes a warm, radiant charm. Unlike many "Eli" names with Hebrew origins, Elio comes from Italian and Spanish traditions, tracing back to the Greek sun god Helios and the Roman family name Aelius [45, 47, 49]. This Mediterranean heritage gives it a lyrical, sun-soaked quality that feels both classic and fresh.
Elio has been climbing the popularity charts at an impressive rate. By 2025, it reached #462 in the U.S., a jump of 78 spots from the previous year. This followed an even bigger leap in 2024, when it surged 139 places compared to 2023 [45, 47]. For context, back in 2021, Elio was ranked #841, with only 279 baby boys receiving the name. This rapid rise reflects a broader trend for "Eli" names, where tradition meets contemporary appeal. As Nameberry's Brynn McKeon puts it:
a sunny and spirited Italian and Spanish name that makes a great crossover prospect, which could catch on as Enzo has
.
Elio also fits perfectly into the popular "O-ending" trend seen in names like Leo, Enzo, and Luca. While it's just gaining traction in the U.S., Elio is already a favorite in Europe, ranking among the Top 25 in France and hitting #8 in Switzerland in 2024 [45, 47, 48]. Pop culture is playing a role in its rise, too. The 2017 film Call Me By Your Name introduced audiences to the character Elio Perlman, and Disney-Pixar's 2025 film Elio is likely to give the name an even bigger boost [47, 48, 49].
With its short, vowel-filled structure and the option of the "Eli" nickname, Elio offers a fresh, nature-inspired choice that feels distinct from more traditional biblical names. For parents looking for a name with classical roots, international flair, and a touch of sunny charm, Elio strikes the perfect balance.
7. Eliot
Eliot carries a literary elegance with a touch of modern sophistication.
The name traces its roots back to the Hebrew Elijah, meaning "The Lord is My God." Over time, it transitioned through Hebrew Eliyahu, Greek Elias, and Old French Élie before becoming Eliot in English. It gained prominence in medieval Yorkshire and Lancashire, often reflecting a divine connection.
Eliot’s appeal is further enhanced by its association with the renowned poet T.S. Eliot, giving it an intellectual and artistic flair. This connection has solidified its reputation among aesthetically pleasing baby names. Naming expert Grace Royal highlights the single-L, single-T spelling of Eliot as a sleek and modern alternative to the more common Elliot or Elliott.
Currently, Eliot ranks #935 in the U.S., with only 151 boys named Eliot in 2021. In comparison, the variant Elliot ranks much higher at around #160. Interestingly, BabyCenter data for 2025 shows Eliot making a significant leap, climbing 144 spots. These trends reveal why more parents are drawn to Eliot’s distinct charm.
Like its related names, Eliot strikes a balance between tradition and modernity. Its quirky charm as a standalone name and the versatile nickname "Eli" make it a favorite among parents. The Bump Baby Names Content Team describes it as:
a short and quirky standalone name
that’s:
sure to be a unique player in the schoolyard
. Furthermore, Eliot’s growing presence on unisex name lists sets it apart from the more traditional and widely popular biblical name Elijah, which currently holds the #8 spot.
8. Eliezer
The name Eliezer translates to "my God is help", originating from the ancient Hebrew ʾEliʿezer. It combines ʾel (God) with ʿezer (help), offering a deeply spiritual meaning. According to Oh Baby! Names:
"My God is help is certainly a comforting etymology for the religiously minded."
This name carries a rich history, appearing in the Bible as the name of 11 different figures. Among them are Abraham's chief steward and Moses' second son, both of whom highlight the theme of divine assistance.
In more recent times, notable individuals like Elie Wiesel, the Nobel Peace Prize–winning Holocaust survivor, and Eliezer Ben-Yehuda, the father of modern Hebrew, have brought recognition to the name.
In 2024, Eliezer ranked #1021 in U.S. baby names, with fewer than 200 boys being given the name annually. It first entered the U.S. Top 1000 in 1982 but remains rare, making it a standout choice for parents who want something less common than Elijah (#7) or Elias (#67). Its drop of 34 spots between 2023 and 2024 underscores its exclusivity.
For many parents, Eliezer strikes the perfect balance. It offers the modern appeal of the nickname Eli while maintaining a formal, timeless quality. Its strong religious significance makes it especially favored among Jewish-American families and those with faith-centered values. These qualities help Eliezer carve out a unique place within the "Eli" name family.
9. Elian
Building on the tradition of timeless "Eli" names, Elian brings a multicultural flavor to the mix. Its roots trace back to the Greek/Latin Aelianus or Helianus, meaning "sun." In Welsh, it translates to "fawn" or "hind", with ties to Saint Elian ap Erbin. Meanwhile, in Hebrew, it conveys meanings like "Yahweh is my God" or "my God has answered".
The name gained significant attention during the 2000 Elián González affair, skyrocketing from #3,376 to #426 in U.S. name rankings. It reached its highest point at #235 with 1,483 births in 2023 before settling at #325 by early 2025.
Elian aligns with the popular "-ian" ending trend and has a broad appeal across cultures. It ranks #11 in Puerto Rico and is also popular in Germany, Mexico, and U.S. states with large Hispanic populations, such as Arizona (#101) and Texas (#109) in 2023.
Parents often describe Elian as exotic, spiritual, and "cool." It’s seen as a fresh alternative to names like Elijah or Elias and is increasingly embraced as a gender-neutral option. With its sun-inspired origins and a blend of tradition and modern style, Elian stands out as a distinctive choice in the "Eli" name family.
10. Eliah
Eliah offers a softer twist on the well-loved Elijah while staying true to its strong Hebrew origins. The name translates to "Yahweh is my God", combining the elements "El" (God) and "Yah" (a shortened form of Yahweh). It's a variation of the Hebrew names Eliyah or Eliyahu, directly tied to the prophet Elijah - a 9th-century BCE figure celebrated for championing monotheism and performing miracles. This subtle adjustment gives the name a fresh yet familiar feel.
In biblical texts, Eliah appears as a spiritual figure, adding depth to the name without making it feel overly rooted in tradition.
Modern parents are increasingly drawn to Eliah for its unique place within the "Eli" family of names. While Elijah and Eli dominate popularity charts, Eliah remains a hidden treasure. It also aligns with the rising trend of vowel-rich names, which Sophie Kihm of Nameberry describes as:
the trendiest sound in baby names for 2026
.
Eliah appeals to those looking for "Soulful Names" - options with subtle spiritual undertones that feel warm and timeless rather than overtly religious. It offers the familiar "Eli" nickname while standing out with its vowel-rich ending, striking a balance between ancient roots and modern appeal. Its adaptability across cultures and languages makes it a great choice for families seeking a name with global resonance. Eliah is a name that beautifully combines tradition and individuality, ideal for those who love Elijah's meaning but want something more distinctive.
11. Elis
Elis is a name that beautifully combines timeless appeal with a modern, minimalist vibe. With roots in Greek, Hebrew, and Welsh traditions, it carries meanings like "Jehovah is God" and "kind". This blend of biblical significance and Celtic charm makes Elis a name that feels both meaningful and versatile, especially for families with diverse cultural backgrounds.
While Eli ranked #92 in the United States in 2024 and Elijah continues to dominate the top 10, Elis remains a rarity, seldom appearing in the top 1,000. For parents seeking the familiar "Eli" sound without the popularity, Elis stands out as a hidden gem. On BabyCenter, it ranks as the 25th most popular boy name starting with "Eli", showing that it’s recognized but not overused.
The name also aligns with the growing trend of short, vowel-driven names that feel fresh yet rooted in tradition. With just four letters and two syllables, Elis fits effortlessly alongside modern favorites like Leo, Kai, and Levi. It offers a stylish yet understated alternative for parents drawn to this naming trend.
Elis delivers the spiritual depth of names like Elijah and Elias in a sleek, contemporary package. Its simplicity, combined with its cross-cultural appeal, makes it an excellent choice for families looking for a name that balances history with modern sensibilities.
12. Eliam
Eliam is a Hebrew name that translates to "God is my nation" or "people of God". It brings together the cherished "Eli" prefix with the trendy "-iam" ending, similar to names like Liam. The name combines the biblical "El" (God) with "am" (nation or people). While it’s not as widely recognized as Elijah or Elias, it holds its own unique charm.
Eliam fits seamlessly into modern naming trends. The popularity of "Eli-" names reached its peak in 2018, accounting for 1.5% of total usage. Compared to Elian, which ranked #411, Eliam offers a fresh, distinct sound that feels both gentle and strong. Its vowel-rich structure aligns with current preferences for names that are soft yet commanding.
For parents seeking a biblical name with a modern twist, Eliam strikes the perfect balance. It offers the same historical depth as names favored by the Puritans in the 17th century, while standing out as a less traditional choice compared to Elijah or Elias. Whether chosen for its spiritual meaning or its contemporary appeal, Eliam carries a timeless connection to a rich naming tradition.
Conclusion
Boy names starting with "Eli" have stood the test of time, blending ancient Hebrew roots with modern naming trends. With meanings like "high", "elevated", and "my God", these names carry a profound spiritual and historical significance, making them a meaningful choice for families.
Their lasting appeal is reflected in their popularity. Eli, for example, has consistently been a favorite in the U.S., ranking at No. 92 in 2024. It's a name that feels both timeless and contemporary.
"If you're looking for a strong name for a son, one that feels current but deeply rooted in tradition, compact and stylish Eli could be just the thing."
– Abby Sandel, Founder, Appellation Mountain
What sets these names apart is their adaptability. They work equally well as short, standalone names or as part of longer variations, fitting perfectly with today’s preference for simple, vowel-rich options. Whether you’re drawn to the biblical connection or simply love the way it sounds, "Eli" names offer something special for every family.
To make your naming journey easier, NameHatch provides tools designed to simplify the process. With features like intuitive filters, partner matching, and a swipe-friendly interface, you can explore meanings, origins, and styles to find the name that feels just right. Start your search today and discover a name that’s both meaningful and unforgettable.
FAQs
What is the meaning and origin of names starting with 'Eli'?
Eli is a name with deep roots and a rich history, originating from Hebrew. Its foundation lies in the word ʿēl (אל), meaning “God,” and ʿal (על), which translates to “high” or “exalted.” Together, these elements give Eli meanings such as “my God,” “high,” or “elevated.” The name is also recognized as a shortened form of biblical names like Elijah, Eliezer, and Elisha, all of which share the divine “el-” prefix.
In the Old Testament, Eli is remembered as a high priest who served as a mentor to Samuel. This biblical connection helped the name gain traction among English-speaking Puritans in the 17th century. Over the years, Eli evolved into a standalone name, admired for its simplicity, spiritual significance, and timeless charm. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for parents drawn to its meaningful and uplifting qualities.
How popular are boy names starting with 'Eli' in different countries?
Boy names that start with 'Eli' have held steady appeal across the United States and other English-speaking countries, though their popularity rankings can vary. In the U.S., Eli consistently ranks among the top 100 boys' names, making it a go-to choice for many parents. It’s even more favored in countries like Australia and Canada, where it often climbs higher on baby name charts. Over in New Zealand, it also remains a well-liked option.
Across Europe, Eli doesn’t reach the same level of popularity but still maintains a certain charm. For instance, it enjoys moderate recognition in Ireland and Slovenia. However, in places like France and the Netherlands, it falls outside the top 300. Interestingly, even in Israel, where Hebrew names are widely used, Eli is familiar but not a common pick.
In short, Eli offers a blend of timeless appeal and individuality, especially in English-speaking regions where it continues to shine.
What are some less common boy names that start with 'Eli'?
If you're on the hunt for boy names starting with Eli that are a little off the beaten path, there are plenty of options to explore. For instance, Elian, which means "my God has answered" in Hebrew, and Elie, a French-inspired variation, offer a fresh take while staying outside the top 100 in popularity. For those drawn to biblical names, Eliezer ("God is my help") or the lesser-known Eliakim ("God will establish") bring a classic yet distinctive feel.
Looking for something with international flair? Names like Elio (popular in Italian and Spanish), Eeli (a Finnish favorite), or Eloi (a charming French option) add a global touch while keeping that familiar "Eli" sound. Other rare gems, such as Elier or Heli, are perfect for parents who want a name that's truly unique. These choices let you celebrate the timeless appeal of "Eli" while giving your child a name that stands out from the crowd.
