Simeon
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Simeon
Simeon, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of French origin.
Meaning of Simeon
God is heard
Simeon is a Hebrew name meaning "he who hears" or "God has heard." It is also the name of one of the twelve sons of Jacob in the Bible.
| Meaning | God is heard |
| Origin | French |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #965 in 2019 Steady |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Simeon
The name Simeon has ancient origins and can be traced back to various cultures and languages. Its most well-known etymology comes from the Hebrew language, where it is derived from the root word "shama," meaning "to hear" or "listen." In the Bible, Simeon is the name of two significant figures. The first Simeon mentioned in the Old Testament is one of Jacob's sons, listed in the Book of Genesis. Later, in the New Testament, Simeon is remembered as the devout man who meets the baby Jesus at the temple.
Throughout history, the name Simeon has been adopted by different cultures with variations in spelling and pronunciation. In Greek, it is spelled as "Simōn" and in the Slavic languages, it is commonly written as "Simeon" or "Simion." The name has also been used in different forms in African countries, such as "Simba" in Swahili meaning "lion," and "Simen" in Amharic, a language spoken in Ethiopia, where it means "established" or "steadfast."
The name Simeon has remained popular in various parts of the world, including Europe, the Americas, and Africa. It carries positive connotations of being a good listener, trustworthy, and devoted. With its religious associations, the name Simeon has been a choice for parents seeking a name with deep spiritual significance. Famous individuals with the name Simeon include Simeon I of Bulgaria, a medieval Bulgarian ruler, and Simeon Djankov, a prominent economist and former Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister.
Overall, the name Simeon has a rich history and diverse cultural significance. It embodies qualities of attentiveness, faith, and resilience. Whether chosen for its religious roots or its meaningful associations, Simeon continues to hold its place as a timeless and significant name.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Simeon over the years.
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Simeon.
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