Onesimus is a unique and historic male given name of Latin origin. The name Onesimus means "profitable" or "useful," which stems from the Latin word "utile." This name has significant historical importance, as it was borne by a prominent figure in early Christian history.
The most notable Onesimus was an enslaved man from Ephesus who played a significant role in the life of the Apostle Paul. According to the New Testament of the Bible, Onesimus was converted to Christianity while imprisoned with Paul and eventually became one of his closest friends and fellow workers. It is believed that Onesimus was also the first black Christian missionary.
The name Onesimus has been used throughout history as a testament to its unique meaning. However, it remains relatively rare today, making it an intriguing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a rich historical background. Overall, Onesimus is a powerful and meaningful name that carries a profound legacy of faith, loyalty, and service.
The name Onesimus has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 50 babies being named Onesimus since 1982. The highest number of births recorded was in 2013, with 8 newborns given this unique name. However, the most consistent years for naming a child Onesimus were from 1999 to 2020, during which time there were between 5 and 7 births per year. Despite its relative rarity compared to more common names, Onesimus has maintained some level of consistency in usage over the past four decades in the United States.