Rebekah
Meaning & Etymology
The name "Rebekah" is of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew name רִבְקָה (Rivqah), which is believed to mean "to tie" or "to bind". This name is famously associated with the biblical figure Rebekah, the wife of Isaac and the mother of Esau and Jacob. The etymological roots of the name reflect themes of connection, attachment, and strength, which are often symbolically linked to the character of Rebekah in religious and cultural contexts.
Linguistic Origin
The name "Rebekah" has its origins in Hebrew. It is a biblical name with a rich cultural and linguistic background. The name has been transliterated into various languages, retaining its essential phonetic structure across different cultures and regions.
Cultural Background
In religious contexts, the name "Rebekah" holds significance as the name of a prominent biblical figure. It is often associated with qualities of strength, wisdom, and maternal care, reflecting the character of the biblical Rebekah.
Pronunciation
The name "Rebekah" is pronounced as "ruh-BEK-uh". It is a three-syllable name with the stress on the second syllable. Regional pronunciation variants may include slight differences in emphasis and intonation, but the overall phonetic structure remains consistent.
Gender Usage
The name "Rebekah" is mostly associated with females. While it is traditionally a feminine name, variations like "Rebecca" and "Becky" have been used for both genders in some cultures.
Nicknames & Variants
Nicknames
- Becky
- Becca
- Bekah
- Beka
- Bex
- Reba
- Rivka
- Riv
- Rivi
- Kiki
Variants
- Rebecca
- Rebeca
- Rebekka
- Rebeka
- Rivka
- Rivkah
- Rivke
- Rivkie
- Rivky
- Becky
Origins & History
Historical Namesakes
- Rebekah Brooks - British journalist and former newspaper editor
- Rebekah Mercer - American heiress and political donor
- Rebekah Graf - American actress
Mythology & Literature
The name "Rebekah" is deeply rooted in biblical mythology and is associated with the story of Isaac and Rebekah in the Old Testament. It has been a popular name in literature and has appeared in various cultural references, symbolizing strength, loyalty, and familial bonds.
Historical Significance
Rebekah Harkness, an American philanthropist and art collector, was known for her contributions to the arts and cultural preservation. Her legacy continues to influence the world of art and philanthropy.
Additional Information
Popularity & Demographics
In the United States, the name "Rebekah" was most popular in the 1980s and 1990s, reaching its peak in the top 100 names. However, its popularity has declined in recent years, with fewer parents choosing the name for their daughters. It remains a recognizable and timeless biblical name with enduring appeal.
Trend Analysis
The name "Rebekah" has experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years, with periods of high usage followed by declines. While it may not be as prevalent in current naming trends, its timeless biblical origins ensure its enduring appeal for parents seeking a traditional and meaningful name for their daughters.
Geographical Distribution
The name "Rebekah" and its variants are prevalent in English-speaking countries and regions with a significant Christian or Hebrew cultural influence. It may have variations in pronunciation and spelling in different linguistic and regional contexts.
Personality Traits
Individuals named "Rebekah" are often associated with traits such as strength, independence, and resilience. They are perceived as nurturing and caring, reflecting the maternal connotations of the biblical figure Rebekah.
Compatibility & Initials
The name "Rebekah" pairs well with a wide range of surnames and middle names due to its classic and versatile nature. It forms harmonious combinations with various initials and cultural naming conventions.
Sociolinguistic Usage
The usage and perception of the name "Rebekah" may be influenced by cultural and religious factors, as well as individual preferences for traditional or biblical names. Social and economic factors may also play a role in the naming choices of parents.
Famous Quotes
- "Rebekah, you're a lady. I'm a man. I can't be seen with you." - From the novel "Rebekah" by Daphne du Maurier