Bartholomew – Name Meaning

The name Bartholomew is of Greek origin and is derived from the Aramaic words “bar” meaning “son” and “talma” meaning “furrow”. The name can be translated to mean “son of furrow” or “ploughman”. It is a popular name in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

History of the Name

The name Bartholomew has been around since at least the 4th century AD. It was first used as a given name by Saint Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He was also known as Nathanael and was mentioned in the Bible several times. The name has been used throughout history as a given name for both men and women.

In the Middle Ages, it was common for people to take on a second name that was related to their profession or trade. This is why many people with the surname Bartholomew were farmers or ploughmen. In some cases, it may have been used as an occupational surname for someone who worked with furrows.

Popularity

The name Bartholomew has remained popular over time. In the United States, it peaked in popularity during the late 19th century and early 20th century. It has since declined in popularity but still remains a popular choice for parents looking for unique names for their children.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence in popularity for this classic name. It is currently ranked as the 545th most popular baby boy’s name in the United States according to Social Security Administration data from 2019.

Famous People Named Bartholomew

There are many famous people who have borne this classic name throughout history. Some notable examples include:

  • Saint Bartholomew: One of Jesus’ twelve apostles.
  • Bartholomew Roberts: A Welsh pirate who operated during the early 18th century.
  • Bartholomew Fair: An annual fair held in London from 1133 until 1855.
  • Bartholomew Cubbins: A character from Dr Seuss’ book “The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins”.

Conclusion

The name Bartholomew is a classic choice that has stood the test of time. It has been around since at least the 4th century AD and continues to be a popular choice today. Its meaning of “son of furrow” or “ploughman” makes it an ideal choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their child.

By Ava Isabella Hartley

Ava Isabella Hartley is a renowned expert in the field of onomastics, the study of names and their meanings, with a particular focus on baby names. She holds a Master's degree in Linguistics from the University of Cambridge and has over 15 years of experience in the study of etymology, name trends, and cultural naming practices.

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