Choosing a baby name is a significant decision, laden with meaning and anticipation. If you’re considering Jethro, you’re likely drawn to its unique sound and perhaps its historical roots. But how popular is the name Jethro today, and what does it signify? Let’s delve into the history, popularity trends, and alternatives to help you decide if Jethro is the right name for your little one.
The Meaning and Origins of Jethro
The name Jethro has strong biblical ties, originating from the Hebrew name "Yithro" (יִתְרוֹ). He was Moses’ father-in-law, a Midianite priest who offered wise counsel to Moses in the Book of Exodus. The generally accepted meaning of Jethro is "abundance" or "excellence." Some scholars also interpret it as "his excellence," suggesting a sense of dignity and respect. This connection to a figure known for wisdom and guidance adds a layer of depth to the name.
Jethro Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
While not a mainstream name, Jethro has seen fluctuations in popularity over the past century. Examining historical data provides valuable insights into its usage.
According to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), Jethro’s popularity has varied significantly. The table below showcases its ranking, number of births, and percentage of births per year:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1911 | 617 | 6 | 0.0016% |
| 1912 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1913 | 969 | 6 | 0.0011% |
| 1914 | 962 | 10 | 0.0014% |
| 1915 | 1,299 | 6 | 0.0007% |
| 1916 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1917 | 1,146 | 10 | 0.001% |
| 1918 | 1,216 | 8 | 0.0007% |
| 1919 | 1,316 | 7 | 0.0007% |
| 1920 | 1,253 | 9 | 0.0008% |
| 1921 | 1,518 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1922 | 1,533 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1923 | 1,024 | 17 | 0.0015% |
| 1924 | 1,151 | 12 | 0.001% |
| 1925 | 1,109 | 13 | 0.0012% |
| 1926 | 1,098 | 14 | 0.0013% |
| 1927 | 1,401 | 6 | 0.0005% |
| 1928 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1929 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1930 | 1,359 | 6 | 0.0006% |
| 1931 | 1,081 | 12 | 0.0012% |
| 1932 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1933 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1934 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1935 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1936 | 1,284 | 6 | 0.0006% |
| 1937 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1938 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1939 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1940 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1941 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1942 | 1,230 | 7 | 0.0006% |
| 1943 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1944 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1945 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1946 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1947 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1948 | 1,408 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1949 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1950 | 1,454 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1951 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1952 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1953 | 1,587 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1954 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1955 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1956 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1957 | 1,380 | 7 | 0.0004% |
| 1958 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1959 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1960 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1961 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1962 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1963 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1964 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1965 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1966 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1967 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1968 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1969 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1970 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1971 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1972 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1973 | 1,601 | 6 | 0.0005% |
| 1974 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1975 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1976 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1977 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1978 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1979 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1980 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1981 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1982 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1983 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1984 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1985 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1986 | 1,568 | 13 | 0.0009% |
| 1987 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1988 | 2,327 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1989 | 2,512 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1990 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1991 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1992 | 2,545 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1993 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1994 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1995 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1996 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1997 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1998 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1999 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2000 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2001 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2002 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2003 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2004 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2005 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2006 | 2,215 | 13 | 0.0008% |
| 2007 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2008 | 3,011 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 2009 | 2,214 | 14 | 0.0009% |
| 2010 | 1,711 | 32 | 0.0022% |
| 2011 | 1,646 | 35 | 0.0025% |
| 2012 | 1,674 | 33 | 0.0023% |
| 2013 | 1,782 | 26 | 0.0018% |
| 2014 | 1,472 | 50 | 0.0034% |
| 2015 | 1,330 | 66 | 0.0045% |
| 2016 | 1,267 | 77 | 0.0053% |
| 2017 | 1,227 | 82 | 0.0059% |
| 2018 | 1,123 | 100 | 0.0073% |
| 2019 | 1,219 | 84 | 0.0062% |
| 2020 | 1,377 | 75 | 0.0059% |
| 2021 | 1,430 | 76 | 0.0062% |
| 2022 | 1,206 | 118 | 0.0089% |
| 2023 | 1,146 | 130 | 0.01% |
From this data, we can observe that Jethro has experienced a resurgence in recent years. While it remained relatively uncommon for much of the 20th century, the 2010s and early 2020s have seen a notable increase in its usage, reaching a rank of 1,146 with 130 births in 2023 representing 0.01% of total births. This suggests a growing appreciation for vintage and unique names.
Variations and Names That Sound Like Jethro
If you’re drawn to the sound and feel of Jethro but want to explore alternatives, consider these options:
Variants:
- Jeth: A shorter, more modern take on the name.
- Jethroe: A slightly more elaborate version, retaining the original sound.
Similar Sounding Names:
- Atreo: A Spanish name with a similar rhythm.
- Autry: An English name meaning "noble strength," offering a different meaning but similar sound.
- Ettore: An Italian name meaning "loyal".
- Jader: A Hebrew name, meaning "Thankful; God will judge".
- Uther: An English name.
Sibling Names for Jethro
Choosing sibling names that complement Jethro can create a harmonious and balanced family name set. Names that share a similar vintage or biblical feel often work well.
- Obadiah: A Hebrew name meaning "servant of God," fitting the biblical theme.
- Tabitha: An Aramaic name meaning "gazelle", it offers a classic and gentle sound.
The Enduring Appeal of Jethro
The name Jethro offers a blend of historical significance, unique sound, and a touch of the unconventional. Its increasing popularity suggests a growing appreciation for names that stand out from the crowd while carrying a rich heritage. Whether you’re drawn to its biblical roots, its meaning of "abundance," or simply its distinctive sound, Jethro is a name that is sure to make a statement. If you are looking for a name that is unique, while still sounding strong and historic, Jethro might be the perfect choice.