Bishop

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

Bishop - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Bishop
B-I-S-H-O-P, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Bishop
BISH-əp
BISH up
Meaning of Bishop
Overseer, guardian, supervisor of spiritual things.
Origin of Bishop
The name 'Bishop' has its roots in the English language and is derived from the Old English word 'bisceop', which means 'overseer' or 'guardian'. In its earliest known use, the name 'Bishop' was used to denote a high-ranking clergyman in the Christian church, specifically one who had been ordained and had the authority to oversee a diocese.
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Popularity of Bishop
Over time, the popularity of the name 'Bishop' has seen fluctuations. In the early 1900s, the name was relatively rare, but it gained some traction in the mid-20th century. However, it never reached the levels of popularity seen with more common names. In recent years, the name 'Bishop' has experienced a modest increase in usage, perhaps due to its unique and distinctive sound.
Bishop currently has 2 likes, and is in the top 10% of liked boy's names. The name Abayomi is slightly more popular than Bishop.

Etymology of Bishop

The etymology of the name 'Bishop' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'biskops', which means 'overseer' or 'guardian'. This word, in turn, is derived from the Latin 'episcopus', which has the same meaning. The Latin word itself comes from the Greek 'episkopos', which also means 'overseer'. The linguistic roots of the name 'Bishop' highlight its connection to the role of a bishop in the Christian church.

Cultural Significance of Bishop

The name 'Bishop' holds particular cultural significance within the context of Christianity. In many Christian denominations, a bishop is considered a spiritual leader and holds a position of authority within the church hierarchy. The name 'Bishop', therefore, carries connotations of leadership, guidance, and religious devotion.