Judith
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Judith
Judith, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of Hebrew origin.
Meaning of Judith
From judea
Judith is a feminine given name originating from the Hebrew Yehudit, meaning “woman of Judea” or “Jewish woman.” The name is generally understood to mean "praise" or "woman of Judea".
| Meaning | From judea |
| Origin | Hebrew |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #832 in 2024 Rising Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1940s) |
Background & History of The Name Judith
Judith is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew name Yehudith, meaning "woman from Judea" or "Jewish woman." The name Judith has significant historical and biblical relevance. In the Old Testament, Judith is a brave and clever heroine who saved her people from the oppressive Assyrian general, Holofernes. This story of bravery and cunning has made Judith a popular name throughout history.
Throughout various cultures and time periods, the name Judith has been adopted and adapted in different forms and spellings. In the English-speaking world, variations such as Judita, Judy, and Judyth have emerged. The name has also been translated into other languages, resulting in variations like Judit (Hungarian), Yehudit (Hebrew), and Judicaël (Breton).
Judith's popularity peaked in the United States during the mid-20th century. It was a common name for girls born in the 1940s and 1950s, but its usage has declined since then. Despite this decline, the name Judith still carries a classic and timeless charm.
Common nicknames associated with the name Judith include Judy, Judi, and Jude. Judy Garland, the legendary American actress and singer, is perhaps the most famous bearer of the name. Her talent and iconic status in Hollywood have contributed to the name's popularity and recognition in popular culture.
Overall, the name Judith holds historical, biblical, and cultural significance. Its strong and courageous connotations make it a well-regarded choice for parents seeking a timeless and meaningful name for their daughters.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Judith over the years.
Similar Hebrew Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Judith.
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