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Jonah

Boy name · 398 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Jonah: 398 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 38 births in 2022.

The name Jonah, borne in the Old Testament by the prophet who spent three days in a great fish, comes from the Hebrew *Yonah*, meaning 'dove'. Its most famous modern bearer is the American actor Jonah Hill, known for his comedic and dramatic roles. A fine Scottish place connection exists in the village of Tighnabruaich on the Cowal Peninsula, where the local church is named St. Jonah's, serving a Gaelic-speaking community for generations. A gentler variant form is the less common Jonas, while the name Jonah remains a strong, cross-cultural favourite, bridging its ancient biblical roots with a contemporary, friendly feel that works well in both Scotland and beyond.