Zeke Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationZEEK / ziːkHebrew; English
Meaning
Hebrew: God strengthens; English: short form of Ezekiel
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Zeke is derived from the Hebrew name "Yehezkel," which means "God will strengthen." This name evolved through various linguistic forms, transitioning from Hebrew to Greek as "Ezekiel" and then to Latin, where it was rendered as "Ezechiel." The name entered Old French as "Ezechiel" before being adopted into English as Ezekiel, with Zeke emerging as a common diminutive or short form of the name. This linguistic journey reflects the historical significance of the name within Judeo-Christian traditions.
Ezekiel is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, known as one of the major prophets. His prophetic book, which dates back to the 6th century BCE, contains visions and messages that are integral to Jewish and Christian theology. The Book of Ezekiel is notable for its vivid imagery and themes of restoration and hope, particularly in the context of the Babylonian exile. The name has been carried through centuries by various religious figures and has been referenced in significant biblical translations, including the King James Bible, published in 1611, which helped solidify its presence in English-speaking cultures.
Culturally, the name Zeke has resonated through various artistic and literary works, often symbolizing strength and resilience, reflective of its original meaning. The name's association with the prophetic tradition has lent it a sense of gravitas, making it a choice for characters in literature and media that embody these qualities. Additionally, the diminutive Zeke has been embraced in various contexts, often conveying familiarity and warmth, which further contributes to its enduring appeal across different eras.
Trend Summary
Zeke has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Zek
- Zeke
International Variants
- Ezequiel (Spanish)
- Zekiel (Dutch)
Famous people named Zeke
Zeke Elliott is a professional football player best known for playing with the Dallas Cowboys and being a two-time NFL rushing yards leader.
Zeke Bratkowski is a former professional football player best known for his time with the Green Bay Packers and as a backup quarterback in the NFL.
Fictional characters named Zeke
Zeke is a fictional character from the anime and manga series Attack on Titan. He is a key figure in the conflict between the Eldians and Marleyans, known for his strategic mind and the power of the Beast Titan.
Zeke is a fictional character from the video game series The Legend of Zelda. He is a prominent figure in the lore of the series, often associated with the ancient history of Hyrule.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Zeke was first seen in the United States in 1880. Zeke has ranked as high as #945 nationally, which occurred in 2022, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Indiana. In the past 5 years the name Zeke has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Zeke (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 34 | |
CA | 32 | |
FL | 23 | |
MI | 19 | |
VA | 16 | |
PA | 16 | |
IL | 15 | |
NY | 11 | |
OH | 11 | |
GA | 11 | |
AZ | 10 | |
TN | 10 | |
UT | 10 | |
WA | 9 | |
NC | 9 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 6 |
1883 | 6 |
1888 | 6 |
1889 | 5 |
1895 | 7 |
1898 | 8 |
1902 | 6 |
1905 | 6 |
1907 | 5 |
1910 | 8 |
1911 | 9 |
1912 | 6 |
1913 | 8 |
1914 | 13 |
1915 | 11 |
1916 | 8 |
1917 | 5 |
1918 | 6 |
1919 | 9 |
1920 | 5 |
1921 | 6 |
1922 | 11 |
1923 | 5 |
1924 | 9 |
1925 | 8 |
1926 | 8 |
1927 | 8 |
1928 | 9 |
1929 | 7 |
1930 | 6 |
1932 | 10 |
1933 | 5 |
1934 | 7 |
1935 | 10 |
1936 | 6 |
1937 | 11 |
1938 | 7 |
1939 | 14 |
1940 | 8 |
1941 | 6 |
1942 | 7 |
1943 | 10 |
1944 | 19 |
1945 | 11 |
1946 | 7 |
1947 | 13 |
1948 | 7 |
1949 | 11 |
1950 | 5 |
1951 | 8 |
1952 | 5 |
1953 | 11 |
1954 | 10 |
1956 | 9 |
1957 | 9 |
1958 | 14 |
1959 | 7 |
1960 | 10 |
1961 | 11 |
1963 | 13 |
1964 | 14 |
1965 | 12 |
1966 | 9 |
1967 | 11 |
1968 | 13 |
1969 | 9 |
1970 | 22 |
1971 | 26 |
1972 | 25 |
1973 | 21 |
1974 | 29 |
1975 | 39 |
1976 | 30 |
1977 | 38 |
1978 | 41 |
1979 | 38 |
1980 | 35 |
1981 | 35 |
1982 | 26 |
1983 | 28 |
1984 | 26 |
1985 | 18 |
1986 | 27 |
1987 | 21 |
1988 | 43 |
1989 | 60 |
1990 | 52 |
1991 | 49 |
1992 | 39 |
1993 | 39 |
1994 | 55 |
1995 | 36 |
1996 | 57 |
1997 | 43 |
1998 | 49 |
1999 | 54 |
2000 | 88 |
2001 | 92 |
2002 | 108 |
2003 | 103 |
2004 | 96 |
2005 | 122 |
2006 | 103 |
2007 | 112 |
2008 | 124 |
2009 | 155 |
2010 | 184 |
2011 | 205 |
2012 | 244 |
2013 | 251 |
2014 | 325 |
2015 | 359 |
2016 | 397 |
2017 | 425 |
2018 | 405 |
2019 | 407 |
2020 | 384 |
2021 | 450 |
2022 | 459 |
2023 | 429 |
2024 | 358 |