Saul
SAWL
Saul comes from the Hebrew Sha’ul (שָׁאוּל), meaning “asked for” or “prayed for.” The name implies that the bearer was a child earnestly desired and requested from God.
The Old Testament’s King Saul was Israel’s first monarch, anointed by the prophet Samuel. In the New Testament, Saul of Tarsus became the Apostle Paul after his conversion on the road to Damascus.
Saul ranked No. 559 in 2024 with 529 births. It peaked at No. 270 in 1997 with 1,045 births, and its steady presence reflects consistent use within both Jewish and Hispanic communities.
What the name Saul means
The AMC series Better Call Saul (2015–2022) and its predecessor Breaking Bad put the name in front of millions of viewers. The character Saul Goodman became one of television’s most memorable figures.
One syllable — SAWL — carries a weighty, ancient gravitas. The open vowel and liquid ending make it resonate longer than its single syllable would suggest.
In Latin America, Saúl (with an accent) is a well-established name that has been popular for generations. American usage draws from both this Hispanic tradition and the name’s biblical roots.
Saul occupies an interesting position: deeply traditional yet never overexposed in modern America. It remains distinctive enough to stand out while carrying thousands of years of history.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Saul
Saul - similar names
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