Jeff

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

Jeff - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Jeff: J-E-F-F, is a 4-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Jeff: jef
Meaning of Jeff: Divinely peaceful, god peace, peaceful ruler, god's peace.
Origin of Jeff: The name 'Jeff' finds its roots in the English language, specifically as a diminutive form of the name 'Jeff'rey'. It first emerged in the early 20th century as a shortened version of the longer and more formal name. 'Jeff'rey' itself has Norman-French origins, derived from the Germanic name 'Godfrey', meaning 'peaceful gift of God'. The name 'Jeff' gained popularity as an independent name, shedding its association with 'Jeff'rey' over time.; American Names; English Names; Germanic Names; Old English Names; Pet Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Jeff: Geff; Geof; Geoff; Geoffrey; Geoffroi; Geofredo; Giotto; Godfrey; Gottfried; Jeferi; Jeffer; Jefferey; Jefferies; Jefferson; Jeffery; Jeffie; Jeffrey; Jeffy; Jeofroi
Popularity of Jeff: Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Jeff' has experienced fluctuations. In the mid-20th century, it saw a notable spike in usage, coinciding with the baby boom era. During this time, parents sought short and simple names that exuded a sense of familiarity and approachability. The name 'Jeff' fit the bill perfectly, becoming a popular choice for newborns.; Jeff currently has 222 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Andre is slightly more popular than Jeff.

Etymology of Jeff

Etymologically, the name 'Jeff' does not have a distinct origin language. However, it can be traced back to the Germanic roots of the name 'Jeff'rey'. The Germanic name 'Godfrey', from which 'Jeff'rey' is derived, combines the elements 'god' meaning 'god' and 'frey' meaning 'peace'. This etymology highlights the name's connection to divine peace, suggesting a sense of tranquility and harmony.

Cultural Significance of Jeff

While the name 'Jeff' does not possess strong cultural significance in a specific context, it has become widely recognized and embraced in Western societies. Its simplicity and approachability have made it a popular choice among parents across different cultures. The name's lack of cultural specificity allows it to transcend boundaries and be embraced by people from various backgrounds.