All about the name

Uriah

Male

« Uriah is a rare yet powerful Hebrew name derived from "ur" (light) and "yah" (God), translating to "God is my light. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Uriah is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew words "ur" meaning "light" and "yah" which means "God." Therefore, Uriah can be translated to mean "God is my light." This name has a rich history and cultural significance in the Bible. In the Old Testament, Uriah was a Hittite warrior who was husband to Bathsheba, with whom King David had an adulterous relationship. Uriah was unwittingly used as part of David's scheme to cover up his sin. Despite this negative association, Uriah is considered by some to be one of the most virtuous characters in the Bible due to his loyalty and obedience. Uriah has also been used as a given name in various cultures throughout history. In England during the Middle Ages, it was used as a given name for boys, while in American literature, it gained popularity through the character Uriah Heep in Charles Dickens' novel "David Copperfield." Today, Uriah is still an uncommon but striking choice for a boy's name, especially among parents looking for something distinctive and meaningful. In summary, Uriah is a unique Hebrew name with a significant biblical history. Its meaning, "God is my light," gives it a powerful and profound significance. Despite its negative association in the Bible, Uriah remains a strong and distinctive name choice that carries a rich cultural heritage.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Uriah since 1880

Total births
11,215
Total since 1880
Peak year
2014
558 births
in 2023
378
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-4%
vs previous 5 years