WeeNames Scotland’s favourite name finder

← All names

Rafael

Boy name · 107 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Rafael: 107 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 13 births in 2022.

Rafael comes from the Hebrew name Raphael, meaning “God has healed,” rooted in the angelic figure of healing in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. Perhaps its most famous bearer is the Renaissance painter Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio), whose grace and harmony defined an era, while modern audiences may think of Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal, whose grit and 22 Grand Slam titles bring the name resilience. The name also echoes in places like San Rafael, California, and the Brazilian city of São Rafael, both honouring the archangel. A notable variant is Raphael, the classic English form, while Rafael remains the preferred spelling across Spanish, Portuguese, and many Romance cultures—a timeless choice carrying both artistic and athletic prestige.

Boy 17 of 52 years

Peak year
202213 babies
Latest (2025)
#4417 babies
Total births
107since 2006
5-year trend
▲ 14%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2022 · 13
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).