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Jules Unisex

Popularity: #836 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationJoolz / /dʒuːlz/

Latin; French

Meaning

Latin: youthful; French: downy

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Jules has its roots in the Latin name Iulius, which is derived from the Roman family name Iulius, believed to be linked to the Latin word 'ioulos,' meaning 'downy-bearded' or 'youthful.' The name evolved through various forms, transitioning from Iulius in Latin to Iulianus in Late Latin, and eventually to Jules in Old French. This transformation reflects the linguistic shifts that occurred as Latin evolved into the Romance languages, particularly during the medieval period when Old French became prominent in the region that is now France.

Historically, the name Jules is associated with several notable figures, including Julius Caesar, a pivotal figure in Roman history, whose legacy influenced the use of the name throughout Europe. The name was further popularized by the Christian martyr Saint Julian, who lived during the 4th century and was venerated in various regions, particularly in France. The name gained additional prominence through the influence of the King James Bible, which, while not directly translating the name, contributed to the cultural context in which biblical names were revered and adopted.

Culturally, Jules carries connotations of nobility and youthfulness, often associated with the ideals of chivalry and honor in medieval literature. The name has been embraced in various artistic and literary contexts, reinforcing its significance in Western culture. Additionally, the diminutive form 'Jules' has been used affectionately in French-speaking regions, further embedding the name in cultural traditions. Overall, Jules reflects a rich historical tapestry, connecting ancient Roman heritage with medieval and modern European identities.

Trend Summary

Jules has seen a steady rise in popularity in the United States, particularly in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Jul
  • Jule

International Variants

  • Jules (French)
  • Julio (Spanish)
  • Giulio (Italian)
  • Julius (Latin)

Famous people named Jules

Jules Verne is a novelist best known for Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and Around the World in Eighty Days.

Jules Massenet is a composer best known for Thaïs, Manon, and Werther.

Jules Dassin is a director best known for The Naked City, Rififi, and Topkapi.

Jules Feiffer is a cartoonist and playwright best known for The Phantom Tollbooth, Little Murders, and his work in The Village Voice.

Jules Asner is a television personality and model best known for Revealed with Jules Asner, The Daily Show, and E! News.

Fictional characters named Jules

Jules Winnfield is a fictional character from the film Pulp Fiction. He is a hitman who undergoes a moral transformation throughout the story.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Jules was first seen in the United States in 1880. Jules has ranked as high as #740 nationally, which occurred in 1928, and has been most popular in Louisiana, New York, California, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. In the past 5 years the name Jules has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Jules (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 14
34%
NY 11
27%
TX 6
15%
LA 5
12%
OH 5
12%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188016
188116
188213
188318
188417
188513
18867
188711
188818
188912
189012
189113
189220
189320
189414
189517
189616
189716
189811
189913
190013
190115
190221
190322
190414
190517
190621
190716
190825
190927
191035
191147
191281
191385
1914119
1915111
1916127
1917124
1918146
1919128
192095
1921116
1922113
1923119
1924113
1925126
1926122
1927135
1928154
1929121
1930118
1931130
1932120
1933104
1934100
193574
193689
193795
193881
193994
194097
194188
1942105
194396
194477
194577
1946101
1947105
194890
194968
195081
195175
195296
1953102
195481
195575
195657
195769
195868
195962
196054
196161
196252
196348
196443
196552
196638
196743
196848
196954
197050
197139
197238
197352
197442
197544
197639
197742
197832
197964
198045
198145
198242
198351
198447
198546
198643
198756
198871
198957
199051
199170
199258
199357
199438
199551
199646
199757
199860
199948
200054
200154
200259
200359
200459
200571
200656
200746
200866
200969
201056
201157
201269
201364
201465
201595
201684
201790
201888
2019100
2020120
2021115
2022109
2023108
202488