Jesse

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Jesse

Gender Boy
Origin Hebrew
Letters 5
Syllables 1
Pronunciation JEH-see

Jesse, which has 5 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of Jesse

Wealthy

Jesse is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin meaning "God's gift" or "God exists". It is also associated with the Hebrew name Yishai, which is derived from the same root.

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Rate:
(3.7/5 from 27 votes)
Meaning Wealthy
Origin Hebrew
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #187 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Moderate (Top 250)
Era 80s name

Background & History of The Name Jesse

The name Jesse is of Hebrew origin and has a rich history with various meanings and associations across different cultures. In Hebrew, the name is derived from the root word "yishai," which means "gift" or "wealth." In the Bible, Jesse is best known as the father of the renowned King David, making the name Jesse carry biblical significance. From a Christian perspective, Jesse is also an important figure as he is believed to be part of the genealogy of Jesus.

Throughout history, individuals with the name Jesse have made notable contributions in various fields. In the world of sports, Jesse Owens stands out as one of the most influential figures. He was an African-American track and field athlete who won four gold medals at the 1936 Olympic Games, defying Adolf Hitler's notion of Aryan superiority.

In popular culture, the name Jesse gained prominence through characters in literature and television shows. One such example is Jesse Pinkman from the critically acclaimed television series "Breaking Bad." Portrayed by Aaron Paul, Jesse Pinkman is a complex character known for his involvement in the illicit drug trade and his struggle for redemption.

Furthermore, the name Jesse is gender-neutral, allowing both males and females to bear this name. It has continued to be popular across different decades, with its peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, the name Jesse continues to be well-received and chosen by parents for its strong historical and cultural associations.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Jesse over the years.

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Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Jesse.

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