Jonah
Jonah is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning “Dove”, pronounced JOH-nuh. It ranked #128 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,828 babies, and peaked at #124 in 2023. Common nicknames: Joe, Jo, Jojo.
How popular is Jonah in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Jonah mean, and where does it come from?
Jonah comes from the Hebrew name Yonah, meaning "dove." In the Old Testament, Jonah was a prophet commanded by God to preach to the city of Nineveh. He famously attempted to flee by sea and was swallowed by a great fish, spending three days in its belly before being released. The story of Jonah is one of the most recognized biblical narratives, told across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The name carries connotations of peace, resilience, and redemption. It has risen significantly in popularity in recent years.
How is Jonah used around the world?
Jonah is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 7+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Jonah?
Famous People Named Jonah
- Jonah Hill — American actor and filmmaker
- Jonah Lomu — New Zealand rugby legend
- Jonas Salk — developer of the polio vaccine (variant)
Similar Names to Jonah
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Sibling Name Ideas for Jonah
Looking for names that pair well with Jonah? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Jonah mean?
Jonah is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "Dove." Jonah comes from the Hebrew name Yonah, meaning "dove." In the Old Testament, Jonah was a prophet commanded by God to preach to the city of Nineveh.
How do you pronounce Jonah?
Jonah is pronounced JOH-nuh. Common variations include Jonas, Yunus, Giona.
Is Jonah a boy name?
Yes, Jonah is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Joe, Jo, Jojo.