Jonathan is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning "gift from God". It is derived from the Hebrew elements yôdan ("God") and ânatôn ("given"). The name Jonathan first appears in the Old Testament of the Bible, where it is borne by the son of King Saul who befriends David.
The name Jonathan became popular among Christians during the Middle Ages and continued to be used throughout Europe. In England, Jonathan was a common given name for boys from the 16th century onwards. It was also popular in Wales, where it is sometimes spelled "Jonathan" or "Jonathon".
In literature, Jonathan Swift, an Irish writer known for his satirical works including "Gulliver's Travels", helped to further popularize the name in English-speaking countries.
Today, Jonathan remains a popular choice among parents looking for a classic and timeless boy's name. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, Jonathan has consistently ranked within the top 500 most popular names for boys since the 1960s, with its highest ranking being 28th place in the mid-1970s.
Overall, Jonathan is a strong and meaningful name with a rich history that spans centuries and cultures. Its biblical origins give it a sense of gravitas, while its classic sound and timeless popularity make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a traditional yet distinctive name for their son.
The statistics provided show the number of babies named Jonathan born in the United States each year from 1981 to 1988. During this period, there was an average of 6 births per year, with a slight increase to 7 births in 1984. Overall, there were a total of 25 babies named Jonathan born in the US during these eight years. This data can be useful for understanding naming trends and patterns during that time period.