What does Jesus mean and where does it come from?
Though traditionally a male name, Jesus (in Spanish 'Jesús') has been used for females as a form of religious devotion, especially in the Spanish-speaking community. It is most commonly associated with the figure of Jesus Christ in Christianity. In some cultures, it can be paired with other names, l
Cultural significance
Jesus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dios salva.
Peak popularity
Reached #1296 in 1930 — currently #172 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Jesus?
Jesus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Jesus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Jesus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Jesus Mae
Sweet · timeless
Jesus Claire
French influence · crisp
Jesus Jane
Literary · strong
Jesus Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Jesus right now?
Declining — down 6 spots — currently #172 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #172 | 2,110 | ▼ down 6 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #166 | 2,258 | ▲ up 4 |
| 2021 | #170 | 2,269 | ▲ up 9974 · +22590% births |
| 2015 | #10144 | 10 | ▼ down 1444 · -23% births |
| 2010 | #8700 | 13 | ▼ down 3736 · -50% births |
| 2005 | #4964 | 26 | ▼ down 881 · -13% births |
| 2000 | #4083 | 30 | ▼ down 1626 · -42% births |
| 1995 | #2457 | 52 | ▼ down 278 · -12% births |
| 1990 | #2179 | 59 | ▲ up 46 · +28% births |
| 1985 | #2225 | 46 | ▲ up 171 · +15% births |
| 1980 | #2396 | 40 | ▼ down 539 · -18% births |
| 1975 | #1857 | 49 | ▲ up 671 · +69% births |
| 1970 | #2528 | 29 | ▲ up 1442 · +164% births |
| 1965 | #3970 | 11 | ▼ down 28 |
| 1960 | #3942 | 11 | — |
The story of Jesus
Jesus entered American naming records in 1907 and has been in use for over 117 years. More than 235,854 babies have been named Jesus since 1907. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2163 in 1910 to #172 in 2023. Jesus is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Jesus in 1930:
Jesus by decade
Jesus peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 133 | |
| 1890s | 142 | |
| 1900s | 464 | |
| 1910s | 2,342 | |
| 1920s | 6,859 | |
| 1930s | 5,660 | |
| 1940s | 6,450 | |
| 1950s | 8,490 | |
| 1960s | 11,039 | |
| 1970s | 19,156 | |
| 1980s | 27,824 | |
| 1990s | 49,616 | |
| 2000s ★ | 61,564 | |
| 2010s | 33,843 | |
| 2020s | 2,272 | |
What are good nicknames for Jesus?
What names sound and feel like Jesus?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Jesus also consider these
How is Jesus written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Jesus
What does the name Jesus mean?
Jesus means "Dios salva" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Jesus?
Jesus is currently ranked #172 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Jesus?
Jesus originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Jesus?
Jesus is a two-syllable name pronounced JH IY1 Z AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Jesus more of a girl or boy name?
Jesus is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.