Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Jefferson”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Jefferson originated as a patronymic surname, meaning “son of Jeffrey.” Jeffrey, itself derived from the medieval name Geoffrey, came to England with the Norman conquest and became popular during the Middle Ages. The name Jefferson was initially used as a surname, but like many surnames, it evolved into a given name over time, especially in the United States where its historical and cultural impact is significant.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Meaning “Son of Jeffrey,” the name Jefferson inherently possesses elements of legacy and familial ties. The name evokes a sense of continuity and lineage. In various cultures, surnames transitioning into first names often carry an added layer of dignity and respect. The name Jefferson is often associated with tranquility and calmness, aspects that align well with the keywords: tranquil, calm, serene, stillness, solitude, and still.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Jefferson

1. Thomas Jefferson

• Historical Era: Late 18th to early 19th century
• Key Contributions: Third President of the United States (1801–1809), principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and a Founding Father.
• Cultural Impact: His influence extends to multiple facets of American life, including politics, education (he founded the University of Virginia), and civil rights.

2. Jefferson Davis

• Historical Era: Mid-19th century
• Key Contributions: President of the Confederate States during the American Civil War.
• Cultural Impact: A complex figure in American history, his legacy is often discussed in the context of the Civil War and its aftermath.

Usage Over Time

The name Jefferson has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States. Historically used as a surname, it became more commonly adopted as a given name in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its association with prominent figures like Thomas Jefferson boosted its popularity. 

According to the U.S. Social Security Administration, Jefferson had moments of heightened popularity. The name saw increased use from the 1970s through the 2000s. In particular, celebrity influence and the general trend of using surnames as first names contributed to its modern appeal.

Pronunciation Guide

The name Jefferson is pronounced as JEFF-er-suhn. Here is the phonetic guide:

• Jeff: [ʤɛf]
• er: [ər]
• son: [sʌn]

Biblical Context

There is no direct reference to the name Jefferson in the Bible. However, names with the “Je-” prefix can occasionally be found, and the use of patronymic surnames is consistent with naming conventions in ancient times, where lineage and heritage were of significant importance.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Jefferson is associated with the number 7, which signifies introspection, analysis, and understanding.

Variations

The name does not have many variations but might appear differently across cultures. For instance, it may simply appear as “Geofferson” in some instances.

Cultural Variants

In Portuguese, the name “Jefferson” may also be popular, pronounced with a slight variation due to linguistic differences.

Popularity Information

Jefferson has appeared in the top 1000 names for several decades, reflecting consistent but moderate use. For instance, it peaked in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s and remained relatively stable through the early 2000s. Its standing in lists of popular names from past decades can be verified through the Social Security Administration’s baby name database, reflecting its steady if not top-tier presence as a given name.

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