Gideon is a name of Hebrew origin that means "destroyer" or "hewer". It is derived from the Hebrew word "gadya", which means "to hew" or "to break in pieces". The name Gideon has significant historical and biblical ties, making it a meaningful choice for parents looking for a unique and substantial name for their child.
In the Old Testament of the Bible, Gideon is the name of a hero and judge who delivered Israel from the Midianites. He was originally named Jerubbaal but was renamed Gideon by an angel who appeared to him in a vision. The angel told Gideon that he would be the father of a son whose name would reflect God's victory over his enemies, and thus the name Gideon became associated with strength, courage, and divine intervention.
Throughout history, the name Gideon has been used by notable figures, including several kings and nobles in Europe. In medieval England, there was a family named Gideon who were prominent landowners and had holdings in various parts of the country. The Gideon surname is still found today in many countries around the world, reflecting its longstanding use throughout history.
Today, Gideon remains a popular choice for parents looking for a strong, unique name with deep historical roots. While it may not be as common as some other names, its biblical and historical significance makes it an attractive option for those seeking a meaningful name for their child. Overall, the name Gideon is a powerful and distinctive choice that reflects its rich history and significant meaning.
The name Gideon experienced a significant increase in popularity over the past century. While there were fewer than 15 births per year between 1880 and 1960, since 1962 the annual number of births with the name Gideon has consistently been above this mark, reaching a peak of 1161 births in 2017. Over these two centuries, there have been a total of 20,176 births registered as Gideon.