Zalman is a unique and distinctive Hebrew name that means "peace" or "tranquility". It has a rich history dating back to biblical times.
The name Zalman first appears in the Talmud, a significant work of Rabbinic literature, where it was given to several notable sages. One of the most famous bearers of this name is Rabbi Zalman Shneerson (1860-1944), who was the seventh Rebbe (leader) of the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic dynasty.
The name Zalman has been popular among Ashkenazi Jews for centuries, and it continues to be so today. It is often chosen by parents who wish to bestow a traditional Jewish name with a positive meaning upon their sons.
In addition to its Hebrew roots, the name Zalman also has connections to other languages and cultures. In Slavic languages such as Russian and Ukrainian, Zalman is translated as "peaceful" or "tranquil". This reflects the shared Semitic-Indo-European linguistic heritage.
Overall, Zalman is a name with deep historical roots, a meaningful interpretation, and widespread cultural relevance. It serves as an excellent choice for parents seeking to honor Jewish tradition while also bestowing a positive attribute upon their child.
The name Zalman has a rich history of usage in the United States, with fluctuations in popularity over time. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, there were fewer than ten births each year with this name. However, starting from the mid-1970s, we see an increase in its popularity, reaching a peak of 27 births in 2021.
Throughout the years, the number of births with the name Zalman has shown periods of growth and decline. From 1986 to 1995, for instance, there were consistently more than ten births per year, with a high of 15 births in both 1988 and 1996. Conversely, the years between 2003 and 2011 saw a decline in popularity, with fewer than ten births each year.
Despite these fluctuations, Zalman remains a name that has been consistently used in the United States over many decades. Its most recent resurgence in popularity is evident from the high number of births recorded in both 2021 and 2023, indicating that it continues to appeal to parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children.
In conclusion, while the name Zalman has had its ups and downs in terms of popularity over time, it remains a name with enduring appeal in the United States. Its recent surge in popularity suggests that it may continue to be chosen by parents in the coming years.