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Raffaele Boy

Popularity: #906 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationrah-fah-EL-eh / ˈra.ffa.e.le

Italian; Hebrew

Meaning

Italian: God has healed; Hebrew: healer

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Raffaele is of Italian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Rafa'el, which means "God has healed." The name is composed of two elements: "rafa," meaning "to heal," and "el," meaning "God." This name was adopted into Greek as Rhafael and later into Latin as Raphaël, before evolving into its Italian form, Raffaele. The transition into English occurred through the Latin and French forms, particularly during the Renaissance, when biblical names gained prominence in English-speaking regions.

Raffaele has significant historical milestones, particularly in religious contexts. The name is associated with the archangel Raphael, who is mentioned in the Book of Tobit, a text found in the Apocrypha and included in the Septuagint, an ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible. Raphael is often regarded as a healer and guide, which aligns with the etymological meaning of the name. The archangel's influence is evident in various religious texts and traditions, including the King James Bible, which was completed in the early 17th century. Throughout the centuries, the name has been borne by various saints and notable figures in Christian history, further solidifying its significance.

Culturally, Raffaele resonates with themes of healing and divine intervention, making it a name of hope and restoration. In Italian culture, the name is often celebrated in art and literature, with notable references in works by Renaissance artists such as Raphael Sanzio, who is often associated with the name due to the similarity in forms. The name Raffaele also has diminutive forms, such as Raffa, which are used affectionately in familial and social contexts. Overall, Raffaele embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution, historical significance, and cultural resonance.

Trend Summary

Raffaele has seen a steady presence in the US, with occasional spikes in popularity.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Rafa
  • Raffy

International Variants

  • Rafael (Spanish)
  • Raphaël (French)
  • Rafaele (Portuguese)

Famous people named Raffaele

Raffaele Esposito is a chef best known for creating the Margherita pizza.

Raffaele Mazzarella is a musician best known for his work with the band Il Volo.

Raffaele Riefoli, known as Raf, is a singer-songwriter best known for his hits Self Control and Change Your Mind.

Fictional characters named Raffaele

Raffaele is a fictional character from the video game series Assassin's Creed. He is a member of the Assassin Brotherhood and plays a significant role in the narrative of the series.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Raffaele was first seen in the United States in 1908. Raffaele has ranked as high as #1095 nationally, which occurred in 1969, and has been most popular in New York. In the past 5 years the name Raffaele has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Raffaele (2016)

StateBirthsShare
NY 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19086
19129
191411
191511
19165
191711
191811
19199
19217
19228
192313
19247
19266
19285
19325
19365
19567
19585
19599
196011
196110
19628
196311
196421
196512
196615
196715
196814
196924
197015
197117
197212
197321
197421
197522
197620
197723
197822
197919
198015
198116
198216
198317
19847
198519
198618
19879
198811
198916
199021
199111
199213
199318
19949
19955
199613
199713
199817
199910
200018
200114
200211
20039
200411
200513
20068
200714
20088
200914
201010
201113
201213
20138
201411
201514
201617
201710
201812
201913
202014
20216
20228
202314
202418