Amok

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

Amok - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Amok: A-M-O-K, is a 4-letter male given name.
Meaning of Amok: Strength of god's flock.
Origin of Amok: The name 'Amok' has its origins in the Malay language, specifically in the phrase 'amuk' which means 'to attack furiously'. This term was first recorded in the early 19th century by European travelers who witnessed instances of individuals going on violent rampages in Southeast Asia. These episodes, known as 'running amok', involved a sudden and uncontrolled outburst of aggression, often resulting in harm to others or oneself.; Hebrew Names
Popularity of Amok: While the name 'Amok' may not be as widely recognized as some other names, it has experienced notable spikes in usage throughout history. The term 'running amok' gained attention in the Western world during the colonial period when European explorers and writers documented their encounters with such incidents. This led to the term entering the English language, and subsequently, the name 'Amok' became associated with these violent episodes.; Amok currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Etymology of Amok

As we delve into the linguistic roots of the name 'Amok', we find that it is derived from the Malay language, specifically the word 'amuk'. The Malay language itself is part of the Austronesian language family, which includes languages spoken in various parts of Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It is fascinating to see how words and names can travel across cultures and languages, carrying with them their unique meanings and histories.

Cultural Significance of Amok

The name 'Amok' holds particular cultural significance in the context of Southeast Asia, where the phenomenon of 'running amok' originated. In traditional Malay society, instances of amok were often seen as a result of personal or societal pressures, such as feelings of shame, honor, or loss. While the name itself may not be widely used in contemporary Southeast Asian cultures, the concept of amok continues to be a subject of study and discussion in fields such as psychology and anthropology.