Bartholemew

What does the baby name Bartholemew mean? Learn about what Bartholemew means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Bartholemew - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Bartholemew
B-A-R-T-H-O-L-E-M-E-W, is a 11-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Bartholemew
bar THOL o myu
Meaning of Bartholemew
Son of tolmai, hill, furrow, son of talmai.
Origin of Bartholemew
The name Bartholomew finds its roots in ancient Hebrew. It is derived from the Aramaic name Bar-Tôlmay, meaning 'son of Tolmai'. In the Bible, Bartholomew is mentioned as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is often identified with Nathanael, a disciple who is introduced to Jesus by Philip in the Gospel of John. The name Bartholomew is also associated with Saint Bartholomew, an early Christian martyr who is believed to have preached in India and Armenia.
Aramaic Names
Biblical Names
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Hebrew Names
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Popularity of Bartholemew
Throughout history, the popularity of the name Bartholomew has experienced fluctuations. In medieval times, it was a relatively common name, particularly in Europe. However, its usage declined in the following centuries, and it became less prevalent. In recent years, the name has seen a slight resurgence in popularity, albeit remaining relatively uncommon. Notable spikes in usage can be observed during periods of religious revival or cultural interest in biblical names.
Bartholemew currently has 1 like, and is in the top 14% of liked boy's names. The name Dakarai is slightly more popular than Bartholemew.

Etymology of Bartholemew

As mentioned earlier, the name Bartholomew has its origins in the Aramaic language. The term 'Bar' means 'son of', while 'Tôlmay' is believed to have various interpretations, including 'furrow' or 'plowman'. This suggests a connection to agriculture, possibly symbolizing fertility and abundance. The linguistic roots of the name provide us with a glimpse into the cultural and historical context in which it emerged.

Cultural Significance of Bartholemew

The name Bartholomew holds particular cultural significance within Christian communities. As one of the apostles of Jesus, Bartholomew is revered as a figure of faith and devotion. In religious art and literature, he is often depicted alongside the other apostles, symbolizing the spread of Christianity. Additionally, Bartholomew's association with Saint Bartholomew has solidified his place in Christian history and mythology.