All about the name

Onesimus

Male

« Onesimus is a Latin-derived male given name which means "profitable" or "useful," historically significant as borne by a notable early Christian figure who was also believed to be the first black Christian missionary. »

#15476 over 5 years

Meaning, origin, history

Onesimus is a unique and historic male given name of Latin origin. The name Onesimus means "profitable" or "useful," which stems from the Latin word "utile." This name has significant historical importance, as it was borne by a prominent figure in early Christian history. The most notable Onesimus was an enslaved man from Ephesus who played a significant role in the life of the Apostle Paul. According to the New Testament of the Bible, Onesimus was converted to Christianity while imprisoned with Paul and eventually became one of his closest friends and fellow workers. It is believed that Onesimus was also the first black Christian missionary. The name Onesimus has been used throughout history as a testament to its unique meaning. However, it remains relatively rare today, making it an intriguing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a rich historical background. Overall, Onesimus is a powerful and meaningful name that carries a profound legacy of faith, loyalty, and service.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Onesimus since 1880

Total births
50
Total since 1880
Peak year
1982
9 births
in 2020
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-8%
vs previous 5 years