Castiel is a unique and unconventional name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "castle," which means "pure" or "innocent." This name has gained popularity in recent years, likely due to its association with the angel character Castiel on the popular television show Supernatural.
The name Castiel has been used historically as a given name, though it is relatively rare. It was first recorded in the 19th century and has since been used sparingly. Despite its rarity, the name has been utilized by various cultures throughout history, including Jewish communities around the world.
One of the most notable historical figures with the name Castiel was Castiel, Duke of France (1462-1532), a French nobleman who served as a military commander during the Italian Wars. However, it is important to note that this individual's given name was actually Charles, and he was known by the title "Duke of Castile," which was incorrectly translated into his forename in some historical records.
Today, Castiel remains an uncommon but intriguing choice for a baby boy's name. Its unique spelling and pronunciation set it apart from more conventional names, while its meaning imbues it with a sense of purity and innocence. Parents who choose this name may do so for its distinctive sound, its biblical associations (as the name appears in the Old Testament as one of the nine angels mentioned by name), or simply because they are drawn to its unique character. Regardless of its origin or history, Castiel is a name that stands out for its originality and its meaningful association with purity and innocence.
The name Castiel has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past decade in the United States. In 2009, only 13 babies were named Castiel. However, by 2014, this number had more than doubled to 253 births that year alone.
Interestingly, between 2015 and 2018, the number of babies named Castiel remained relatively stable, hovering around the 300 mark each year. But then, in 2019, there was a notable spike with 335 newborns being given the name Castiel.
However, this trend appears to have reversed slightly in recent years. Between 2020 and 2023, the number of babies named Castiel has decreased, from 299 in 2020 down to 248 in 2023.
Overall, since 2009, a total of 3353 babies have been named Castiel in the United States. This demonstrates that while the name may not be as common as some others, it has certainly established itself as a popular choice among parents in recent years.