Herod

“Heroic” — Associated with Herod the Great

Hebrew origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1679US 2023

521Births / yr

→Stable

37All-time births

📅 Since 192100

How to pronounce Herod

HER·ud

/ˈhɛr.əd/ · stress on HER · 2 syllables

“Heroic”

Associated with Herod the Great · Hebrew origin

What does Herod mean and where does it come from?

Herod is a name of Hebrew origin, traditionally associated with Herod the Great, the king of Judea known for his role in the biblical narrative. The name means 'heroic' in Hebrew. It has become less common as a first name in contemporary times but is recognized in historical and biblical contexts. T

Cultural significance

Herod has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of heroic.

Peak popularity

Reached #3844 in 1924 — currently #1679 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Herod?

Herod works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Herod Grace

How popular is Herod right now?

Holding steady — currently #1679 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1925–2023#1679 · Top 1.2%

1925

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1679	521	▲ up 5 · +4% births
2022	#1684	501	▲ up 5 · +6% births
2021	#1689	471	▲ up 3045 · +9320% births
1925	#4734	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Herod

Best Year2023Rank #1679

Peak Count521

Average Rank#2447

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1925 - 20234 years

The story of Herod

Herod entered American naming records in 1921 and has been in use for over 103 years. With 37 total births recorded, Herod remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4734 in 1925 to #1679 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Herod in 1924:

Robert John William James Charles

💎Herod has only 37 total recorded births since 1921 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Herod?

ANCIENT GREEK

Herodion

BIBLICAL GREEK

Herodion

BIBLICAL LATIN

Herodion

BIBLICAL

Herodion

Famous people named Herod

Herod (historical community leader)

Herod led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.

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What names sound and feel like Herod?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Herod also consider these

Herrod

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

Hermod

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

Herko

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

Harod

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

Gerod

American · German

Jerod

English · Afflicted or to

Cherod

American · warrior; brave

Sherod

English · Sherod is a

How is Herod written in other languages?

‘Ηρωιδης

Ancient Greek

What are the girl versions of Herod?

Herodias ANCIENT GREEK Herodias BIBLICAL GREEK Herodias BIBLICAL LATIN Herodias BIBLICAL

Common questions about the name Herod

What does the name Herod mean?

Herod means "Heroic" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Herod?

Herod is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Herod?

Herod originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Herod?

Herod is a two-syllable name pronounced HH EH1 R AH0 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Herod a common or rare name?

Herod is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.