Zephaniah is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "Tsephaniah," which means "hidden by God" or "protected by God." This name has a rich history and significant meaning, making it a popular choice among those seeking a meaningful and uncommon name.
Zephaniah was originally used as a personal name in ancient Judah. It is most notably associated with the Old Testament prophet Zephaniah, who lived during the seventh century BCE. The prophet Zephaniah was known for his predictions of the coming judgment of God upon Jerusalem and other cities. His name appears in the Book of Zephaniah in the Hebrew Bible.
In addition to its biblical significance, the name Zephaniah has been used throughout history by various individuals who have made notable contributions in different fields. For example, Zephaniah Turner was a prominent British abolitionist during the 19th century, while Zephaniah Wells was an influential early American poet and editor.
Today, Zephaniah remains a rare yet powerful name choice for parents seeking to give their child a unique identity with a deep-rooted historical significance. It is often associated with creativity and individuality, reflecting the diverse group of individuals who have carried this name throughout history. Overall, Zephaniah is an impressive and meaningful name that embodies protection and hidden wisdom from God.
The name Zephaniah has been a unique choice among parents in the United States over the past few decades, with a fluctuating number of births each year. In 1996 and 1997, there were 7 births each year, showing that it was already a rare but not unheard-of name.
Interest in the name seemed to grow in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the highest number of births recorded in 2006 (16 births) and 2008-2009 (both 20 births). This indicates that there were several periods where parents collectively chose Zephaniah for their children.
However, despite these peaks, the name remains relatively uncommon. From 2010 onwards, the number of annual births with the name Zephaniah has generally fluctuated between 13 and 28, with a few outliers such as the 44 births recorded in 2016.
In total, from 1996 to 2023 (the latest year for which data is available), there have been 442 births registered with the name Zephaniah in the United States. This demonstrates that while it may not be one of the most popular names, Zephaniah has been consistently chosen by parents over time, resulting in a significant number of individuals sharing this distinctive name.