Origin and Meaning of Samuel

Meaning & Origin

Heard by God

Origin: Hebrew - Derived from the Hebrew name Shemu'el, which means 'name of God' or 'heard by God'.

Interesting Facts

  • Samuel is a significant figure in the Bible, serving as a prophet and judge who anointed the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David.
  • The name is widely used in various cultures with variations like Samuele (Italian), Samuël (Dutch), and Shmuel (Hebrew).
  • Notable bearers of the name include Samuel Adams, a Founding Father of the United States, and the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
  • Samuel has remained consistently popular in many English-speaking countries, especially during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
  • Variations of the name include Sam, Sammy, and various diminutive forms, often used as affectionate nicknames.