Rebekah meaning and 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.

Pronounciation

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.

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.

Trends

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.

Popularity

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.

Sociolingustic 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.

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.

Compatability 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.

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