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Gideon Boy

Popularity: #311 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationGID-ee-uhn / /ˈɡɪdiən/

Hebrew

Meaning

hewer; one who cuts trees

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Gideon has its roots in the Hebrew language, derived from the name "Gid'on" (גִּדְעוֹן), which means "hewer" or "one who cuts trees." This etymology reflects a connection to strength and valor, as the name is associated with the act of cutting down trees, symbolizing the ability to overcome obstacles. The name entered the English language through the Latin form "Gideon," which was adopted from the Greek "Gidion" (Γιδίων) in the Septuagint, the ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, completed in the 3rd century BCE. This pathway illustrates the name's transition from its original Hebrew context into the broader cultural milieu of the Greco-Roman world and subsequently into medieval Latin and Old French before becoming established in English usage.

Historically, Gideon is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Judges, where he is depicted as a military leader and judge who delivered the Israelites from Midianite oppression around the 12th century BCE. His story, which includes the famous account of the battle against overwhelming odds with a small army, has resonated through centuries, symbolizing faith and divine assistance. The narrative of Gideon has been referenced in various religious texts and has inspired numerous artistic and literary works throughout history, including the King James Bible, which was published in 1611 and helped to popularize biblical names in English-speaking cultures.

Culturally, the name Gideon carries connotations of bravery, leadership, and divine guidance, often associated with themes of redemption and triumph over adversity. Its historical significance is further underscored by the existence of various saints named Gideon, particularly in Christian traditions, which helped to maintain the name's presence in religious contexts. The name has also inspired diminutive forms such as "Gid" in some cultures, although these variations are less commonly noted in historical texts. Overall, Gideon's legacy as a biblical hero has ensured the name's enduring resonance in religious and cultural narratives.

Trend Summary

Gideon has experienced a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Gide
  • Giddy

International Variants

  • Gideon (English)
  • Gideão (Portuguese)
  • Gideon (Dutch)

Famous people named Gideon

Gideon Sundback is an engineer best known for inventing the modern zipper.

Gideon Welles was a naval secretary best known for his role during the American Civil War.

Gideon Haigh is a journalist and author best known for his works on cricket and Australian sports history.

Fictional characters named Gideon

Gideon Graves is a fictional character from the comic book series Scott Pilgrim. He is the primary antagonist who controls the League of Evil Exes that Scott must defeat to win the heart of Ramona Flowers.

Gideon is a fictional character from the animated television series DC's Legends of Tomorrow. They are a time-traveling AI who assists the Legends in their adventures and often provides crucial information and support.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Gideon was first seen in the United States in 1880. Gideon has ranked as high as #545 nationally, which occurred in 2017, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. In the past 5 years the name Gideon has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Gideon (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 88
9%
CA 57
6%
PA 53
5%
OH 47
5%
MI 47
5%
FL 44
4%
MO 43
4%
TN 40
4%
IN 40
4%
NY 37
4%
NC 36
4%
WA 35
4%
IL 31
3%
VA 27
3%
MN 26
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188010
18817
18826
18835
18849
188513
188610
18878
188813
18907
18915
18926
18996
190011
19015
19067
19076
190911
19108
191214
191319
191422
191516
191623
191740
191817
191926
192028
192125
192218
192329
192424
192514
192618
192726
192815
192929
193014
193113
193210
19336
193410
19359
193612
193716
193811
193914
194012
19418
194216
194311
19448
19459
194619
194717
194812
19498
195017
195117
195211
195315
195414
195520
195620
195714
195812
195920
196015
196113
196223
196326
196415
196517
196621
196717
196822
196938
197026
197137
197243
197336
197444
197549
197642
197742
197837
197946
198083
198167
198277
198348
198460
198551
198660
198780
198878
198999
199078
199195
199282
1993107
1994101
1995137
1996112
1997121
1998122
1999135
2000180
2001257
2002226
2003290
2004290
2005304
2006433
2007489
2008504
2009485
2010576
2011689
2012765
2013846
2014944
20151,055
20161,034
20171,161
20181,108
20191,042
20201,031
20211,081
20221,024
20231,047
20241,042