Meaning, origin, history
Jonah is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning "dove". It is derived from the Hebrew name Yonah, which also means "dove". In the Bible, Jonah is known as the prophet who was swallowed by a whale, an event that inspired the story of Pinocchio.
The name Jonah has been popular throughout history, appearing in various forms and spellings in different cultures. In ancient times, it was commonly used among Jewish populations, and later spread to other parts of the world through Christianity. Today, Jonah is a popular boys' name in countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
There are several famous individuals with the name Jonah. One of the most well-known is American actor Jonah Hill, who rose to fame in films like "Superbad" and "The Wolf of Wall Street". Another notable figure is British musician Jonah Lewis, a member of the band The Wombats.
Overall, Jonah is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history and meaningful symbolism. Its unique meaning and biblical associations make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a memorable name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jonah since 1880
Total births
79,504
Total since 1880
Peak year
2008
2,981 births
in 2023
2,874
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+18%
↗
vs previous 5 years