Zephaniah

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

Zephaniah - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Zephaniah
Z-E-P-H-A-N-I-A-H, is a 9-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Zephaniah
zef ah NY ah
Meaning of Zephaniah
God has hidden, treasured by god.
Origin of Zephaniah
The name 'Zephaniah' finds its roots in the ancient Hebrew language. In Hebrew, it is written as צְפַנְיָה, which translates to 'Yahweh has hidden' or 'hidden by Yahweh'. This name has a rich biblical heritage, as it appears in the Old Testament as the name of a minor prophet. 'Zephaniah' was known for his prophecies of doom and repentance, emphasizing the importance of turning back to God.

Earliest Known Use and Name Popularity

While the name 'Zephaniah' has ancient origins, its earliest known use dates back to the late 17th century. It gained recognition through its association with the biblical prophet and gradually made its way into various cultures and communities.

In terms of popularity, the name 'Zephaniah' has experienced fluctuations over time. It has never achieved widespread popularity, but it has maintained a steady presence. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the usage of unique and uncommon names, which has contributed to a renewed interest in 'Zephaniah'. This trend reflects a desire among parents to choose distinctive names for their children, seeking to stand out in a world filled with conventional names.
Biblical Names
Hebrew Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Zephaniah
Sephanie
Zenphan
Zeph
Zephan
Zephani
Popularity of Zephaniah
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Etymology of Zephaniah

The etymology of 'Zephaniah' can be traced back to the Hebrew language. The name is a combination of two elements 'Zephan' and 'Yah'. 'Zephan' means 'hidden' or 'treasured', while 'Yah' is a shortened form of the Hebrew name for God, Yahweh. Therefore, 'Zephaniah' can be interpreted as 'hidden by Yahweh' or 'Yahweh has hidden.'

Cultural Significance of Zephaniah

In various cultures, the name 'Zephaniah' holds religious and spiritual significance due to its biblical roots. It is often associated with qualities such as wisdom, prophecy, and divine protection. In some communities, parents choose this name as a way to express their faith and reverence for God.