Names That Mean Us

  1. Emmanuel
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  2. Hosanna
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  3. Emanuel
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Emmanuel, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "God is with us"
    • Description:

      Fewer letters does not always mean easier—the traditional spelling is the one most people will recognize.
  4. Bayo
    • Origin:

      African, Nigerian, Yoruba
    • Meaning:

      "the crown meets joy"
    • Description:

      Short form of Adebayo
  5. Lakota
    • Origin:

      Native American, Sioux
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  6. Emmanuelle
    • Origin:

      French, feminine variation of Emanuel
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. Manuela
    • Origin:

      Spanish, feminine variation of Emmanuel
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  8. Lakota
    • Origin:

      Native American tribal name
    • Meaning:

      "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.
  9. Unathi
    • Origin:

      Xhosa
    • Meaning:

      "God is with us"
    • Description:

      South African musician Unathi Msengana brings this unusual choice to a wider audience.
  10. Emanuele
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Emmanuel, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "God is with us"
    • Description:

      A fresh, Italianized take on the Hebrew classic Emmanuel. But beware of the similarities to the feminine name Emmanuelle.
  11. Man
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Emmanuel, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "God is with us"
    • Description:

      Classic nickname for Emmanuel, but best left off the birth certificate.
  12. Unathi
    • Origin:

      Xhosa
    • Meaning:

      "God is with us"
    • Description:

      A unisex Xhosa name used in South Africa.
  13. Lakotah
    • Origin:

      Native American tribal name
    • Meaning:

      "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.