Malachi Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationMAL-uh-kye / /ˈmæl.ə.kaɪ/Hebrew
Meaning
My messenger; My angel
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Malachi originates from the Hebrew name מַלְאָכִי (Mal'akhi), which translates to "my messenger" or "my angel." This etymology is derived from the root word מַלְאָךְ (mal'ach), meaning "messenger" or "angel." The name appears in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Malachi, which is the last book of the Old Testament in the Christian tradition. The text is believed to have been written in the 5th century BCE and addresses the spiritual and social issues facing the Jewish community after their return from Babylonian exile.
Historically, Malachi is recognized as a prophet, and his writings emphasize themes of covenant, justice, and the coming of a messenger who would prepare the way for the Lord. The significance of Malachi in religious texts has led to its enduring presence in both Jewish and Christian traditions, with the name being referenced in various biblical translations, including the Septuagint and the Latin Vulgate. The name was later adopted into the Christian context, where it is associated with the prophetic tradition.
Culturally, Malachi has been embraced for its spiritual connotations, symbolizing divine communication and guidance. The name has been used in various literary and artistic works throughout history, reinforcing its significance in religious and cultural narratives. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Mali have emerged in some cultures, although they are less historically prominent. The name Malachi continues to resonate within religious communities, reflecting its deep roots in biblical history and its association with prophetic messages.
Trend Summary
Malachi has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Malachai
- Malakhi
International Variants
- Malachie (French)
- Malachai (English)
Famous people named Malachi
Malachi Favors is a musician best known for his work with the Art Ensemble of Chicago, as a bassist and composer.
Malachi Kirby is an actor best known for his roles in Roots, The Last Kingdom, and The Intent.
Fictional characters named Malachi
Malachi is a fictional character from the novel and film The Book of Eli. He is a ruthless gang leader who seeks to control the last remaining copy of the Bible in a post-apocalyptic world.
Malachi is a fictional character from the TV series The O.C. He is a minor character who becomes involved in the lives of the main characters through various plotlines.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Malachi was first seen in the United States in 1880. Malachi has ranked as high as #268 nationally, which occurred in 2006, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Malachi has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Malachi (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 262 | |
CA | 199 | |
FL | 183 | |
GA | 130 | |
NC | 102 | |
OH | 93 | |
PA | 82 | |
TN | 79 | |
NY | 75 | |
VA | 75 | |
AL | 71 | |
IN | 69 | |
IL | 68 | |
MI | 65 | |
WI | 52 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 10 |
1881 | 5 |
1882 | 8 |
1885 | 7 |
1886 | 8 |
1887 | 7 |
1888 | 7 |
1889 | 6 |
1890 | 8 |
1891 | 5 |
1892 | 5 |
1894 | 6 |
1897 | 6 |
1900 | 5 |
1902 | 8 |
1903 | 5 |
1904 | 6 |
1905 | 5 |
1907 | 5 |
1908 | 10 |
1909 | 7 |
1910 | 12 |
1911 | 6 |
1912 | 17 |
1913 | 21 |
1914 | 13 |
1915 | 19 |
1916 | 13 |
1917 | 18 |
1918 | 14 |
1919 | 23 |
1920 | 21 |
1921 | 18 |
1922 | 26 |
1923 | 16 |
1924 | 20 |
1925 | 22 |
1926 | 22 |
1927 | 17 |
1928 | 13 |
1929 | 10 |
1930 | 18 |
1931 | 12 |
1932 | 13 |
1933 | 22 |
1934 | 18 |
1935 | 21 |
1936 | 12 |
1937 | 15 |
1938 | 19 |
1939 | 22 |
1940 | 24 |
1941 | 16 |
1942 | 22 |
1943 | 17 |
1944 | 11 |
1945 | 12 |
1946 | 25 |
1947 | 14 |
1948 | 23 |
1949 | 19 |
1950 | 20 |
1951 | 18 |
1952 | 17 |
1953 | 11 |
1954 | 14 |
1955 | 13 |
1956 | 20 |
1957 | 15 |
1958 | 16 |
1959 | 11 |
1960 | 11 |
1961 | 17 |
1962 | 16 |
1963 | 5 |
1964 | 13 |
1965 | 8 |
1966 | 5 |
1967 | 5 |
1968 | 11 |
1969 | 17 |
1970 | 24 |
1971 | 31 |
1972 | 20 |
1973 | 31 |
1974 | 35 |
1975 | 53 |
1976 | 44 |
1977 | 49 |
1978 | 41 |
1979 | 62 |
1980 | 62 |
1981 | 44 |
1982 | 51 |
1983 | 68 |
1984 | 67 |
1985 | 75 |
1986 | 83 |
1987 | 92 |
1988 | 90 |
1989 | 114 |
1990 | 119 |
1991 | 149 |
1992 | 178 |
1993 | 247 |
1994 | 271 |
1995 | 359 |
1996 | 414 |
1997 | 505 |
1998 | 577 |
1999 | 706 |
2000 | 767 |
2001 | 1,325 |
2002 | 1,673 |
2003 | 1,919 |
2004 | 2,246 |
2005 | 2,553 |
2006 | 2,776 |
2007 | 2,710 |
2008 | 2,457 |
2009 | 2,352 |
2010 | 2,415 |
2011 | 2,351 |
2012 | 2,326 |
2013 | 2,335 |
2014 | 2,397 |
2015 | 2,601 |
2016 | 2,634 |
2017 | 2,546 |
2018 | 2,510 |
2019 | 2,453 |
2020 | 2,400 |
2021 | 2,320 |
2022 | 2,303 |
2023 | 2,478 |
2024 | 2,404 |