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Jordan

The name Jordan is derived from the Hebrew ירדן (Yarden), meaning 'to flow down' or 'descend', referencing the Jordan River in the Middle East. The river holds significant religious importance in Christianity, being the site of the baptism of Jesus. As a given name, it started becoming popular in English-speaking countries in the Middle Ages, often given to pilgrims returning from the Holy Land.

IPA: /ˈdʒɔːrdən/ · Simplified: JOR-dən

Unisex
Hebrew
Biblical
Middle East
Strong
modern
versatile
charismatic

67/100

Popularity

Falling

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2015

Peak Year

Meaning of Jordan

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name Jordan is derived from the Hebrew ירדן (Yarden), meaning 'to flow down' or 'descend', referencing the Jordan River in the Middle East. The river holds significant religious importance in Christianity, being the site of the baptism of Jesus. As a given name, it started becoming popular in English-speaking countries in the Middle Ages, often given to pilgrims returning from the Holy Land.

Does Jordan flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Jordan

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈdʒɔːrdən/ · Simplified: JOR-dən

Nicknames for Jordan

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Jordy
Jord
JJ
Dan

Jordan name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

70

United States

65

Canada

63

United Kingdom

62

New Zealand

60

Australia

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Yarden

Jordyn

Jorden

Jourdan

Names like Jordan

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Jordan

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Individuals with the name Jordan are often seen as adaptable and versatile, able to handle various situations with grace and confidence. They may possess a natural charisma that draws others to them, making them effective leaders or influencers. Jordans are often active, energetic, and bring a modern approach to traditional values.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Jordan

Well-known figures who share this name.

M

Michael Jordan

American basketball player, regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time (1980s-1990s)

J

Jordan Peele

American actor, comedian, and filmmaker known for 'Get Out' (2000s-present)

Frequently asked questions about Jordan

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Jordan mean?
Here is the meaning behind Jordan: The name Jordan is derived from the Hebrew ירדן (Yarden), meaning 'to flow down' or 'descend', referencing the Jordan River in the Middle East. The river holds significant religious importance in Christianity, being the site of the baptism of Jesus. As a given name, it started becoming popular in English-speaking countries in the Middle Ages, often given to pilgrims returning from the Holy Land.
Is Jordan a boy or girl name?
Jordan is a unisex name — it is given to both boys and girls.
How popular is Jordan?
Jordan scores 67/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2015.
What are good nicknames for Jordan?
Popular nicknames for Jordan: Jordy, Jord, JJ, Dan.
What names are similar to Jordan?
Names similar to Jordan: Jordon, Jayden, Madison, Morgan — close in sound, origin, or style.

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