What does Jonas mean and where does it come from?
Jonas (יונה) is predominantly known as a male name but is increasingly used for females in various cultures. It carries the meaning of 'dove' in Hebrew, a symbol of peace, and relates to the biblical prophet Jonah. In Greek, it carries connotations of deliverance or rescue. The name is often linked
Cultural significance
Jonas has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dove.
Peak popularity
Reached #7328 in 1976 — currently #534 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Jonas?
Jonas works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Jonas Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Jonas Rose
Floral · soft ending
Jonas Mae
Sweet · timeless
Jonas Claire
French influence · crisp
Jonas Jane
Literary · strong
Jonas Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Jonas right now?
Rising — up 20 spots — currently #534 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #534 | 555 | ▲ up 20 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #554 | 538 | ▼ down 32 · -4% births |
| 2021 | #522 | 561 | — |
The story of Jonas
Jonas is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1976. A total of 25,783 babies have received this name. Jonas is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Jonas in 1976:
Jonas by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 258 | |
| 1890s | 196 | |
| 1900s | 238 | |
| 1910s | 634 | |
| 1920s | 744 | |
| 1930s | 563 | |
| 1940s | 569 | |
| 1950s | 622 | |
| 1960s | 762 | |
| 1970s | 1,875 | |
| 1980s | 2,384 | |
| 1990s | 2,701 | |
| 2000s ★ | 7,218 | |
| 2010s | 6,418 | |
| 2020s | 601 | |
What are good nicknames for Jonas?
What names sound and feel like Jonas?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Jonas also consider these
Common questions about the name Jonas
What does the name Jonas mean?
Jonas means "Dove" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Jonas?
Jonas is currently ranked #534 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Jonas?
Jonas originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Jonas?
Jonas is a two-syllable name pronounced JH OW1 N AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Jonas more of a girl or boy name?
Jonas is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.