Choosing a name for your baby is a momentous decision, a blend of meaning, sound, and personal connection. If you’re drawn to names with rich history and a touch of elegance, Hadassah might be the perfect fit. This article delves into the popularity, meaning, and alternatives of Hadassah, providing you with comprehensive information to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your little one.
Hadassah Name Popularity
How popular is the name Hadassah? The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides detailed data on name popularity in the United States, allowing us to track the historical trends of Hadassah.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1929 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1930 | 1,556 | 5 | 0.0005% |
| 1931-1936 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1937 | 1,491 | 5 | 0.0005% |
| 1938-1951 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1952 | 1,936 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1953-1954 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1955 | 2,060 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1956-1964 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1965 | 2,252 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1966-1969 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1970 | 2,251 | 7 | 0.0004% |
| 1971 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1972 | 2,676 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1973 | 2,244 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1974-1975 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1976 | 2,355 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1977 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1978 | 2,241 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1979 | 2,756 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1980 | 3,061 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1981-1982 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1983 | 2,591 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1984 | 2,822 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1985 | 1,937 | 20 | 0.0013% |
| 1986 | 2,615 | 9 | 0.0006% |
| 1987 | 2,428 | 12 | 0.0008% |
| 1988 | 2,911 | 7 | 0.0004% |
| 1989 | 2,466 | 14 | 0.0009% |
| 1990 | 3,282 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1991 | 2,086 | 25 | 0.0015% |
| 1992 | 2,250 | 21 | 0.0013% |
| 1993 | 2,541 | 14 | 0.0009% |
| 1994 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1995 | 2,239 | 20 | 0.0013% |
| 1996 | 2,342 | 18 | 0.0012% |
| 1997 | 1,943 | 31 | 0.0021% |
| 1998 | 1,989 | 30 | 0.002% |
| 1999 | 2,347 | 20 | 0.0013% |
| 2000 | 1,799 | 45 | 0.0029% |
| 2001 | 1,679 | 54 | 0.0036% |
| 2002 | 1,886 | 40 | 0.0027% |
| 2003 | 1,841 | 46 | 0.003% |
| 2004 | 1,640 | 61 | 0.004% |
| 2005 | 1,457 | 83 | 0.0054% |
| 2006 | 1,449 | 90 | 0.0057% |
| 2007 | 987 | 215 | 0.0136% |
| 2008 | 960 | 222 | 0.0144% |
| 2009 | 895 | 245 | 0.0164% |
| 2010 | 809 | 281 | 0.0195% |
| 2011 | 804 | 274 | 0.0192% |
| 2012 | 826 | 262 | 0.0184% |
| 2013 | 733 | 314 | 0.0221% |
| 2014 | 678 | 357 | 0.0245% |
| 2015 | 677 | 358 | 0.0246% |
| 2016 | 639 | 396 | 0.0275% |
| 2017 | 705 | 327 | 0.0234% |
| 2018 | 684 | 345 | 0.0251% |
| 2019 | 656 | 368 | 0.0272% |
| 2020 | 687 | 358 | 0.0281% |
| 2021 | 756 | 309 | 0.0253% |
| 2022 | 610 | 445 | 0.0337% |
| 2023 | 613 | 447 | 0.0345% |
As you can see, Hadassah has experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years. While it wasn’t consistently ranked in the top names for much of the 20th century, it has seen a resurgence in recent decades, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
The Meaning and Significance of Hadassah
The name Hadassah carries a profound and beautiful meaning. In Hebrew, it translates to "myrtle tree." The myrtle is often associated with beauty, fragrance, and good fortune, imbuing the name with positive connotations.
Furthermore, Hadassah is famously associated with Queen Esther from the Hebrew Bible. Esther, also known as Hadassah, was a Jewish queen of Persia who bravely saved her people from annihilation. This historical and biblical connection adds a layer of strength, courage, and resilience to the name. Choosing Hadassah is, in a way, invoking the spirit of a woman who stood up for what she believed in and made a significant difference in the world.
Exploring Names Similar to Hadassah
If you admire the sound and feel of Hadassah but want to explore alternatives, here are some names that share similar qualities:
- Hadara/Hadarah: Meaning "beauty, splendor, glory" in Hebrew, it offers a similar sound and origin.
- Asta: A Scandinavian name meaning "star-like; love," providing a different cultural origin with a similar sound.
- Hafsah: An Arabic name.
- Hatsee, Hatsey, Hatsie, Hatsy: German names, meaning "home ruler"
Sibling Name Suggestions
Thinking about names that complement Hadassah for future siblings? Here are some suggestions based on what other parents have chosen:
- Boys: Graham, Lincoln, Finnley, Simon, Caleb
- Girls: Eliana, Ingrid, Alizah, Anna, Ellyana
These names share a similar level of sophistication and timelessness, creating a harmonious blend when paired with Hadassah.
Ultimately, the best name for your baby is the one that resonates with you and your partner. Consider the meaning, sound, and personal significance when making your decision. Hadassah, with its beautiful meaning, historical connection, and rising popularity, is a name that deserves careful consideration.