Nathan is a common given name of Hebrew origin, meaning 'he gave'. It is often used as a shortened form of the given name Nathaniel. Nathan Lane and Nathan Hale are two famous people who share this name. Lane is an American actor and comedian, best known for his roles in The Birdcage and The Producers. Hale was an American soldier and spy during the Revolutionary War, famously remembered for his last words, 'I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country'.