Origin and Meaning of Soul

The essence or spirit of a person; a vital force

Origin: English - Derived from the Old English word 'sāwol' which signifies the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being.

• Soul is often associated with concepts of spirituality, consciousness, and the deepest part of a human being.
• In various cultures, the concept of the 'soul' transcends religious boundaries – seen in philosophies ranging from Animism to major religions like Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
• Notable references include the genre of music known as 'soul', which emerged in the U.S. during the late 1950s and 1960s, blending elements of gospel and rhythm and blues.
• As a name, Soul remains relatively uncommon in the Western world, often chosen for its unique and meaningful connotations.
• Variations and related names can include names emphasizing the spiritual aspect, such as Spirit, Hope, or even more common names like Anima, which means 'soul' in Latin.