"Nathan" is a remarkably versatile name with diverse applications, spanning from ancient biblical figures to modern geographical locations and cultural references. Most notably, it refers to Nathan the Prophet, a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, and Nathan, a son of King David. Beyond these ancient origins, "Nathan" is a widely used given name and surname, notably shared by numerous contemporary Brazilian footballers.

The name also identifies various places, including a suburb in Queensland, Australia, and Nathan Road, a main thoroughfare in Kowloon, Hong Kong. Culturally, it's associated with a Canadian alt-country band, Éditions Nathan (a French publishing house), and the title character of Gotthold Ephraim Lessing's 1779 play, Nathan the Wise, illustrating its broad and enduring presence across different domains.