What does the baby name Bede mean? Learn about what Bede means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Bede - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
The etymology of the name 'Bede' is closely tied to its Old English roots. The word 'beda' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'bedon', which means 'to pray' or 'to request'. This reflects the name's original meaning of prayer or devotion.
In Anglo-Saxon culture, the name 'Bede' held great cultural significance. It was often given to boys in honor of the Venerable Bede, an influential scholar and monk who lived in the 7th and 8th centuries. Bede was known for his extensive writings on religious and historical topics, and he played a crucial role in preserving the knowledge of the early Christian period.
By naming their sons 'Bede', parents sought to honor the legacy and intellectual contributions of the Venerable Bede. The name was seen as a way to inspire their children to pursue knowledge, spirituality, and devotion.