Names That Mean Us
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- Emmanuel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
Emmanuel--spelled with one or two 'm's'-- was popular with early Jewish immigrants, until overused nickname Manny caused it to fade. Now, this important biblical name is being revived in its full glory.
- Hosanna
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"deliver us"Description:
In the New Testament, Hosanna was exclaimed by those around Jesus when he first entered Jerusalem, making this an exuberant and spiritual choice. A possible alternative for Susanna or Hannah, it was given to more than 100 girls in a recent year in the US. Associated with the hymn "Give Me Joy In My Heart", Hosanna would fit in with the likes of Halo, Chosen, Shepherd, Blessing, and Messiah.
- Emanuel
Origin:
Spelling variation of Emmanuel, HebrewMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
Fewer letters does not always mean easier—the traditional spelling is the one most people will recognize.
- Bayo
Origin:
African, Nigerian, YorubaMeaning:
"the crown meets joy"Description:
Short form of Adebayo
- Lakota
Origin:
Native American, SiouxMeaning:
"friend to us"Description:
The name of one of the branches of the Great Sioux Nation has a very namelike sound, but is not used as a name by the Lakota people themselves, and could be seen as appropriative.
- Emmanuelle
Origin:
French, feminine variation of EmanuelMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
The female version of Emanuel could become more prominent, though for some it still carries a steamy image dating back to a then sensationally erotic French film. Singer and Shameless star Emmy Rossum's full name is Emmanuelle.
- Manuela
Origin:
Spanish, feminine variation of EmmanuelMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
Manuela is one feminine form that's more energetic than the male original, and is worth considering if you're seeking an easily assimilated Spanish name.
- Lakota
Origin:
Native American tribal nameMeaning:
"friend to us"Description:
The name of one of the branches of the Great Sioux Nation has a very namelike sound, but is not used as a name by the Lakota people themselves, and could be seen as appropriative.
- Unathi
Origin:
XhosaMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
South African musician Unathi Msengana brings this unusual choice to a wider audience.
- Emanuele
Origin:
Italian variation of Emmanuel, HebrewMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
A fresh, Italianized take on the Hebrew classic Emmanuel. But beware of the similarities to the feminine name Emmanuelle.
- Man
Origin:
Diminutive of Emmanuel, HebrewMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
Classic nickname for Emmanuel, but best left off the birth certificate.
- Unathi
Origin:
XhosaMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
A unisex Xhosa name used in South Africa.
- Lakotah
Origin:
Native American tribal nameMeaning:
"friend to us"Description:
Alternative spelling of Lakota, the name of one of the branches of the Great Sioux Nation. Has a very namelike sound, but is not used as a name by the Lakota people themselves, and could be seen as appropriative.