The name Jemima, a classic and elegant choice, carries a gentle significance that resonates through history. Its enduring appeal makes it a favored option for parents seeking a name with both beauty and meaning. But what is it about Jemima that makes it so special? Let’s delve into the origins, popularity, and variations of this charming name.
The Meaning and Origin of Jemima
Jemima is a Hebrew name meaning "dove." The dove is a symbol of peace, purity, and love, imbuing the name with positive connotations. In the Old Testament, Jemima was one of the three beautiful daughters of Job, known for their grace and beauty. This biblical connection adds a layer of history and depth to the name, enhancing its appeal for those who value tradition.
Jemima Name Popularity
How popular is the name Jemima? Here’s everything we know.
Examining the historical data provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA), we can trace the popularity of Jemima over the years. While the name wasn’t consistently ranked in the top baby names in the United States throughout the 20th century, it experienced pockets of usage.
Here’s a breakdown of Jemima’s popularity based on the data:
- Early 20th Century (1910-1974): The name was not ranked, indicating very low usage during this period.
- Mid to Late 1970s: The name made a brief appearance in 1975, ranking at 2,535 with 5 births, representing 0.0004% of total births.
- 1980s-1991:The name was not ranked, indicating very low usage during this period.
- 1990s: The name made an appearance in 1992, ranking at 3,950 with 5 births, representing 0.0003% of total births and in 1996, ranking at 2,643 with 12 births, representing 0.0008% of total births.
- 2000s: Jemima saw a slight resurgence in the early 2000s. The name appeared in 2000, ranking at 2,937 with 11 births, representing 0.0007% of total births. It remained somewhat consistent, with sporadic appearances in the rankings, hitting 2,575 with 18 births (0.0012%) in 2003 and peaking in 2009 at 2,456 with 22 births (0.0015%).
- 2010s: There were similar intermittent appearances. 2018 saw a high ranking in the period with 2,029 with 28 births, representing 0.002% of total births.
- 2020s: While still not consistently high, 2022 saw a high ranking in the period with 2,602 with 27 births, representing 0.002% of total births and in 2023 it hit 3,021 with 19 births, representing 0.0015% of total births.
This data suggests that while Jemima is not a mainstream, consistently popular name, it experiences periodic revivals, perhaps influenced by cultural trends or individual preferences.
(Data via SSA.gov)
Names Like Jemima: Variations and Similar Choices
If you’re drawn to the charm of Jemima but are seeking variations or similar names, several options offer a comparable appeal:
Variants of Jemima:
- Jamina: Also means "dove" in Hebrew
- Jemimah: A direct variation of Jemima, sharing the same meaning and origin.
- Jeminah: Another slight variation, maintaining the "dove" meaning.
- Jemmie: A diminutive, often used as a nickname. Can also be used as a boy’s name.
- Jemmimah: A less common variation.
- Jemmy: Another diminutive, similar to Jemmie. Can also be used as a boy’s name.
- Mima: A shortened, sweet version.
- Mimma: Another sweet, shortened version.
Lists With Jemima
The name Jemima often appears on lists that celebrate:
- Biblical names
- Vintage names
- Unique and uncommon names
- Names with peaceful meanings
In conclusion, Jemima is a name rich in history and meaning, offering a timeless elegance for those who appreciate its unique charm. Its connection to peace, purity, and biblical heritage makes it a meaningful choice for a baby girl.