Timothy

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Timothy

Gender Boy
Origin Greek
Letters 7
Syllables 3
Pronunciation TIM-uh-thee

Timothy, which has 7 letters and 3 syllables, is a male name of Greek origin.

Meaning of Timothy

Respect

The name Timothy is derived from the Greek name Τιμόθεος (Timotheos), which means "honoring God" or "honoring God's honor". It is a combination of the words timē (honor/respect) and theos (God).

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(3.5/5 from 6 votes)
Meaning Respect
Origin Greek
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #208 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Moderate (Top 250)
Era 60s name

Background & History of The Name Timothy

Timothy is a name of Greek origin that has its roots in the Bible. It comes from the Greek name "Timotheos," which is a compound of "timē" meaning "honor" or "respect," and "theos" meaning "God." As such, Timothy carries the meaning of "honoring God" or "one who fears God." This name has been widely used in English-speaking countries for centuries and has religious connotations due to its biblical association. In the New Testament, Timothy is mentioned as a companion of the apostle Paul and the recipient of two of his epistles, the books of 1 and 2 Timothy.

The name Timothy gained popularity in the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries and remains a fairly common name today. It is often shortened to the nickname "Tim," which has become quite popular as well. Individuals with the name Timothy are often described as intelligent, hardworking, and dependable. They are known to be deep thinkers and have a strong sense of loyalty towards their family and friends.

People named Timothy have made significant contributions in various fields throughout history. Notable bearers of the name include Timothy Leary, a prominent American psychologist and writer known for his advocacy of psychedelic drugs, and Timothy Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web. Additionally, Timothy Hutton, an Academy Award-winning actor, and Timothy McVeigh, the perpetrator of the Oklahoma City bombing, are other famous individuals with this name.

In summary, Timothy is a timeless name with a rich history and biblical significance. Its popularity and usage continue to endure, providing a sense of honor and admiration for God. Whether it invokes religious connections or simply represents a respectable and dependable character, the name Timothy holds a special place in many people's hearts.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Timothy over the years.

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Common nicknames and short forms for Timothy.

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