Meir

♂ Boy

Pronounced meh-EER /mɛˈɪər/High

Meaning: From Hebrew me'ir meaning one who illuminates, shines, or gives light, from the root or meaning lightHigh

In 30 seconds: Meir is a classic Hebrew name meaning one who illuminates or shines. Deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and borne by great rabbis and scholars, it is a name of intellectual and spiritual radiance.

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Origin HighHebrew

MeaningFrom Hebrew me'ir meaning one who illuminates, shines, or gives light, from the root or meaning light

U.S. rank (2025)#948 ↘ Falling

2025 U.S. births248 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2024

Total births (all-time)≈ 4,604

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Meir is a traditional Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jewish name with origins in the Talmudic period. Rabbi Meir (c. 110–175 CE) was one of the principal framers of the Mishnah and is among the most frequently cited sages.

The name has been carried forward by prominent figures in Jewish history including Golda Meir (born Goldie Mabovitch), who took Meir as her Hebrew surname when she became Prime Minister of Israel in 1969.

Did you know? Rabbi Meir, one of the most important Tanna sages of the Mishnaic period (2nd century CE), is said to have received his name because he illuminated the eyes of the sages with his wisdom. His wife Beruriah was herself a noted scholar.

Overall data confidence 96%

Behind the Name — Meir — Hebrew etymology and usageJewish Encyclopedia — Rabbi Meir — historical bearer

Variations

MyerMeyerMaier

Nicknames

Famous Bearers

★Rabbi Meir (biblical)
One of the principal sages of the Mishnah in 2nd-century Judea, central to the codification of Jewish oral law. His name means one who illuminates.

If you like Meir…

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Ezra— same Hebrew prophetic-scholarly register and literary prestige

Ari— shares the short Hebrew name quality and Jewish cultural tradition

Frequently Asked

What does the name Meir mean?

Meir means one who illuminates or shines in Hebrew, from the root or meaning light. It suggests intellectual and spiritual radiance.

How do you pronounce Meir?

It is said meh-EER, with two syllables and stress on the second.

Is Meir a Jewish name?

Yes, Meir is a classical Jewish name used in Ashkenazi and Sephardic communities, borne most famously by Rabbi Meir of the Mishnaic period.

Is Meir related to Golda Meir?

Golda Meir, Prime Minister of Israel, took Meir as her Hebrew surname; it is the same word meaning illuminator, not a given-name connection.