The name Simeon is of Hebrew origin and means "hearing" or "hearkening." It is derived from the Hebrew word "shama," which means "to hear." In the Old Testament, Simeon was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, and his tribe gave rise to one of the twelve tribes of Israel. According to tradition, Simeon is also believed to have been one of the prophets who greeted the infant Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem.
The name Simeon has a rich history and has been used throughout centuries by various cultures. In ancient times, it was often associated with wisdom and prophecy due to its biblical connections. In medieval Europe, the name became popular among Christians, particularly in countries such as France and England, where it was often given to children born around Christmas time.
Today, Simeon remains a relatively uncommon but distinctive name for boys. Its unique sound and strong biblical associations make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a meaningful and memorable name for their child. Whether you're drawn to its historic roots or simply appreciate its beautiful meaning, choosing the name Simeon is a decision that carries with it a sense of timelessness and tradition.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Simeon has experienced a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. Between 1880 and 1945, the number of annual births with the name Simeon ranged from a low of 6 to a high of 34. However, starting in 1948, there was a notable uptick in popularity, with at least 24 births per year until 1959.
From 1960 onwards, the popularity of the name Simeon began to fluctuate more noticeably. There were years with as few as 19 births (in 1961) and as many as 79 births (in 1977). However, starting in 1980, there was a significant increase in popularity, with the number of annual births consistently ranging between 73 and 222. This trend has continued into recent years, with over 148 births recorded each year since 2016.
In total, from 1880 to 2023, there have been 9068 births of the name Simeon in the United States. This data demonstrates a clear pattern of increased popularity for the name Simeon over time, with a significant rise starting in the late 20th century and continuing into the 21st century.