Meaning, origin, history
Jebediah is a unique and distinctively biblical male name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew name "Yedidia," which means "beloved of God" or "friend of God." In the Old Testament, Jebediah is mentioned as one of King David's mighty warriors, known for his courage and loyalty.
The name Jebediah was introduced to English-speaking countries through the King James Version of the Bible, where it appears in several places, including 1 Chronicles 11:26-47. However, its use outside of religious contexts has been quite rare throughout history.
In recent times, there has been a slight resurgence in the popularity of the name Jebediah, perhaps due to its unique sound and biblical associations. Despite this, it remains relatively uncommon compared to other biblical names like John, James, or Samuel.
Overall, the name Jebediah is associated with strength, courage, and devotion, thanks to its biblical origins and the actions of its namesake warrior. It offers a distinctive choice for parents seeking a meaningful and unique name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jebediah since 1880
Total births
713
Total since 1880
Peak year
2016
29 births
in 2023
20
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-3%
→
vs previous 5 years