Home βΊ Baby Names Directory βΊ Jonah
Jonah
Pronounced JOH-nah /ΛdΚoΚ.nΙ/High
Meaning: From Hebrew Yonah, 'a dove' (the prophet swallowed by a great fish); predominantly a boys' name; here for girlsMedium
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Jonah comes from Hebrew Yonah, 'a dove' (the reluctant prophet swallowed by a great fish, who emerged after three days). A soft, devout name; predominantly a boys' name, here covered for girls honestly (slug distinguished).
It registers thinly for girls. Rare for girls, a-dove at the root, and devout.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- Famous bearers coming soon.
If you like Jonahβ¦
Explore names like Jonah
Frequently Asked
What does the name Jonah mean?
Jonah is Hebrew for 'a dove' (the prophet).
How do you pronounce Jonah?
It's said JOH-nah /ΛdΚoΚ.nΙ/ β two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Jonah a boy or girl name?
Jonah is predominantly a boys' name; this page covers its use for girls.
How popular is Jonah?
Jonah is rare for girls in the U.S.