Judah

What does the baby name Judah mean? Learn about what Judah means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Judah - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Judah
J-U-D-A-H, is a 5-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Judah
JOO dah
Meaning of Judah
Praised, to praise, praise, thanks.
Origin of Judah
The name 'Judah' has ancient roots and can be traced back to biblical times. It finds its origins in the Hebrew language and is derived from the Hebrew word 'yehudah', which means 'praised' or 'thankful'. The earliest known use of the name can be found in the Old Testament of the Bible, where 'Judah' is mentioned as the fourth son of Jacob and Leah. He went on to become the ancestor of one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
Biblical Names
Hebrew Names
Jewish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Judah
Jud
Juda
Judas
Judd
Jude
Yechudi
Yechudit
Yehuda
Yehudi
Yehudit
Popularity of Judah
Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Judah' has experienced fluctuations. In biblical times, it held great significance within the Jewish community, as it represented the lineage of the tribe of 'Judah'. However, its popularity waned over the years and saw a decline in usage during the Middle Ages.

In recent times, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of the name 'Judah'. It has become increasingly common among parents seeking meaningful and biblical names for their children. In the United States, the name has steadily climbed the popularity charts, reaching its peak in the early 2000s. This notable spike in usage can be attributed to a growing appreciation for biblical names and their timeless appeal.
Judah currently has 61 likes, and is in the top 5% of liked boy's names. The name Zackery is slightly more popular than Judah.

Etymology of Judah

To understand the linguistic roots of the name 'Judah', we must delve into the Hebrew language. The Hebrew word 'yehudah' is derived from the root word 'yadah', which means 'to praise' or 'to give thanks'. This etymology highlights the positive connotations associated with the name, emphasizing gratitude and appreciation.

Cultural Significance of Judah

The name 'Judah' holds significant cultural importance within the Jewish community. As the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, it symbolizes a rich heritage and ancestry. Additionally, 'Judah' is also associated with the biblical figure of 'Judah' Maccabee, a hero who played a crucial role in the Jewish revolt against the Seleucid Empire. The name serves as a reminder of strength, resilience, and the ability to overcome adversity.