Miriam

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

Miriam - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Miriam: M-I-R-I-A-M, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Miriam: MIR-ee-əm; MEE ree am; MIH ree am
Meaning of Miriam: Sea of bitterness, of the sea or bitter, rebellious woman, mistress of the sea.
Origin of Miriam: The name 'Miriam' finds its roots in ancient times. It is derived from the Hebrew name מִרְיָם (Miryam), which means 'wished-for child' or 'bitter'. 'Miriam' is a name that has been used for centuries, with its earliest known use dating back to biblical times. In the Old Testament, 'Miriam' is mentioned as the sister of Moses and Aaron, making her a significant figure in Jewish history.; American Names; Biblical Names; Classic Names; English Names; Hebrew Names; Jewish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Miriam: Maga; Maida; Maieli; Maija; Maika; Maion; Mair; Maire; Mal; Malana; Mallie; Mame; Mamie; Manette; Manka; Manna; Manon; Manya; Marabel; Maraya; Marda; Mardi; Maree; Marella; Marelle; Maresa; Maret; Maretta; Marfa; Mari; Maria; Mariah; Marial; Mariam; Marian; Mariana; Marianne; Marica; Maricara; Marice; Maridel; Marie; Marieca; Marieke; Mariel; Mariella; Marielle; Marien; Marij; Marija; Marijke; Marika; Marilee; Marilla; Marilyn; Marin; Marinha; Marion; Maris; Mariska; Marita; Maritsa; Marja; Marjaka; Marjatta; Marla; Marley; Marlo; Maroula; Marsia; Maruca; Maruchka; Maruka; Maruska; Mary; Marya; Maryal; Marybel; Marybelle; Marysa; Mashka; Maura; Maureen; Maurise; Maurizia; Mavra; Mearr; Mere; Mergen; Meri; Meria; Meridel; Merika; Merrie; Merry; Mhaire; Mhairi; Mieke; Mieze; Mija; Mimi; Mina; Minette; Mirham; Mirjam; Mitzi; Moira; Moire; Molara; Mollie; Molly; Mora; Morag; Moria; Moya; Moyra; Muire; Muriel; Polly
Popularity of Miriam: Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Miriam' has experienced fluctuations. In ancient times, it was a common name among Jewish families, reflecting its biblical origins. However, during the Middle Ages, the name 's popularity waned as other names gained prominence. It wasn 't until the 19th century that 'Miriam' began to regain popularity, particularly among Jewish communities. In recent years, the name has seen a steady rise in usage, perhaps due to a resurgence of interest in biblical names.; Miriam currently has 258 likes, and is in the top 4% of liked girl's names. The name Thalia is slightly more popular than Miriam.

Etymology of Miriam

To understand the etymology of the name 'Miriam', we must explore its linguistic roots. As mentioned earlier, 'Miriam' originates from the Hebrew name מִרְיָם (Miryam). The Hebrew root word 'marah' means 'bitter', which gives the name its secondary meaning. This linguistic connection reflects the complex nature of the name, encompassing both joy and sorrow.

Cultural Significance of Miriam

'Miriam' holds immense cultural significance, particularly within the Jewish community. As the sister of Moses and Aaron, 'Miriam' played a crucial role in the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. She is revered as a prophetess, a symbol of strength, and a leader. 'Miriam 's significance extends beyond her biblical role; she embodies the resilience and determination of women throughout history.