The name Ichabod is a boy's name of Hebrew origin meaning "the glory is gone". Ichabod and is often added to lists like Bible Names for Boys and discussed in our forums with posts like "Adding then Eliminating - Boys Themed".
From the experts:
Ichabod, an eccentric Old Testament name, is forever tied to the character of Ichabod Crane -- and worse, the teasing possibilities of "icky bod." Even its original meaning is a negative. Skip Ichabod, as if you were ever tempted.
Comments
Shannah Helman Says:
mymel0dy Says:
I find I like names that nb tends to rally against, and this one is no different. I think there is something quirky and almost cool about Ichabod. As for a nickname, while Icky is not so good, Iggy could work in it's place.
AldabellaxWulfe Says:
Ichabod Crane isn't a negative connection, to me at least. True, the original portrayal of the character was far from flattering, but as time has passed his image has become quite a charming one - moving away from the poor, lanky school-teacher to become the proud and accomplished interpretation that Tom Milson embodies in the recent "Sleepy Hollow" tv show.
Still, the character aside, I do like this name and, yes Nameberry, I am 'tempted'. It has a gentle sound, an old-school appeal, and it's different! I like boy names that take a step away from repetition, that are set apart from the same basic looks, sounds and styles that most boy names today are made up of. Ichabod is a vibrant choice that I honestly believe is cute but mature, and grand, but I also think that it's very down-to-Earth as it doesn't set up an expectation of character, e.g. - Ichabod could be a sporty jock just as easily as he could be a shy, effeminate type, or a boy more in between.
I will say that the potential "Icky" nickname does set my teeth on edge but, I don't agree with abandoning perfectly decent names based on what ifs. Overall, I definitely have a soft spot for Ichabod and it's very quickly becoming a favourite of mine.
Zell Says:
Wow, nb really hates this name. Somehow, despite the literary association, the unfortunate first syllable, and the negative meaning, I really like it. I don't know that I would name a child Ichabod--the reaction I get from people is universally thumbs down--but I would be proud to bear this name myself.
Moony Says:
Perhaps a 5 year old might say "Icky-Ichabod" once or twice but, beyond that, I don't see it as being an issue. Like Ebenezer and Bartholomew, Ichabod is due for a spot in the limelight as a generally versatile, original classic that is both handsome and charming. Not to mention, it's wonderfully rare and would thus offer a breath of fresh air in amongst the tiresome tidalwave of Ezras, Isaacs, Noahs and Ashers. All in all, it's an awesome choice and I would encourage more people to consider it, especially now, what with the popular tv show Sleepy Hollow.
maejenn Says:
Nope, disagree. Ichabod is a great name.
Noelle van der Veen Says:
Tom Mison makes this name far more atractive than it used to be.
Zoey_Artemisia Says:
Sounds a lot like 'itch-a-bod'. Bod as in body, so basically itch a body.
vintageluvs Says:
Why do I find this name so tempting? Despite nb's warning, I really love this name. It's fierce yet old manly. If other Biblical stalwarts like Moses and Isaac are now becoming popular, why not Ichabod? I could see Ichabod nn Ike working. Maybe not for everyone, but I can still see this work. One of my many Puritan ancestors was named Ichabod, which might be another reason why I'm so attracted to it.
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It's a cool name for a black horse, though. :D