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Malachi Boy

Popularity: #145 · Trend: ↗ Rising

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)

StateBirthsShare
TX 262
11%
CA 199
9%
FL 183
8%
GA 130
6%
NC 102
4%
OH 93
4%
PA 82
4%
TN 79
3%
NY 75
3%
VA 75
3%
AL 71
3%
IN 69
3%
IL 68
3%
MI 65
3%
WI 52
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188010
18815
18828
18857
18868
18877
18887
18896
18908
18915
18925
18946
18976
19005
19028
19035
19046
19055
19075
190810
19097
191012
19116
191217
191321
191413
191519
191613
191718
191814
191923
192021
192118
192226
192316
192420
192522
192622
192717
192813
192910
193018
193112
193213
193322
193418
193521
193612
193715
193819
193922
194024
194116
194222
194317
194411
194512
194625
194714
194823
194919
195020
195118
195217
195311
195414
195513
195620
195715
195816
195911
196011
196117
196216
19635
196413
19658
19665
19675
196811
196917
197024
197131
197220
197331
197435
197553
197644
197749
197841
197962
198062
198144
198251
198368
198467
198575
198683
198792
198890
1989114
1990119
1991149
1992178
1993247
1994271
1995359
1996414
1997505
1998577
1999706
2000767
20011,325
20021,673
20031,919
20042,246
20052,553
20062,776
20072,710
20082,457
20092,352
20102,415
20112,351
20122,326
20132,335
20142,397
20152,601
20162,634
20172,546
20182,510
20192,453
20202,400
20212,320
20222,303
20232,478
20242,404