Meaning, origin, history
Timothy, often shortened to Timmy, is a name of Greek origin meaning "honoring God" or "honored by God." It was popularized during the Middle Ages when it was used by several saints and martyrs.
The name Timothy first appeared in the New Testament of the Bible as the companion of Saint Paul. He was a missionary who traveled with Paul, and his name is mentioned in several of Paul's epistles. As a result, the name Timothy has long been associated with faith and spirituality.
Throughout history, many notable individuals have borne the name Timothy or its various nicknames such as Timmy. For example, Timothy Leary was an American psychologist known for advocating psychedelic drug use, while Sir Tim Rice is an English lyricist who has written songs for musicals like The Lion King and Evita.
The name Timmy is often associated with youth due to its playful sound, but it can be used at any age. It projects an image of friendliness, approachability, and a bit of mischief. Whether you're named Timothy or simply know someone by the nickname Timmy, this classic name holds a rich history and meaningful origin that makes it timelessly appealing.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Timmy since 1880
Total births
25,720
Total since 1880
Peak year
1960
1,572 births
in 2023
26
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-19%
↘
vs previous 5 years