Jonas
Jonas is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning “Dove”, pronounced JOH-nus. It ranked #599 in the United States in 2025, given to 476 babies, and peaked at #274 in 2008. Common nicknames: Jo, Joni, Nas.
How popular is Jonas 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 Jonas mean, and where does it come from?
Jonas is the Greek and Latin form of Jonah — Hebrew Yonah, "dove" — the prophet who fled his commission, spent three days in the fish and then argued with God about a gourd. It is the standard form across Germany, Scandinavia and Lithuania, where it is the national form of John rather than Jonah, a separate line entirely. American records hold it since 1880. Jonas Salk gave it its best twentieth-century association by refusing to patent the polio vaccine.
How is Jonas used around the world?
Jonas is used in 5 languages worldwide, with 8+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Jonas?
Famous People Named Jonas
- Jonas Salk — American virologist who developed the first polio vaccine
- Jonas Gahr Støre — Prime Minister of Norway
- Jonas Valančiūnas — Lithuanian professional basketball player
Similar Names to Jonas
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Sibling Name Ideas for Jonas
Looking for names that pair well with Jonas? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Jonas mean?
Jonas is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "Dove." Jonas is the Greek and Latin form of Jonah — Hebrew Yonah, "dove" — the prophet who fled his commission, spent three days in the fish and then argued with God about a gourd. It is the standard form across Germany, Scandinavia and Lithuania, where it is the national form of John rather than Jonah, a separate line entirely.
How do you pronounce Jonas?
Jonas is pronounced JOH-nus. Common variations include Jonah, Jónas, Jonás.
Is Jonas a boy name?
Yes, Jonas is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Jo, Joni, Nas.