Micah: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Micah mean and stand for as a girl's name?

Meaning:

Hebrew: Prophet; who is like God?

Gender: Female, unisex

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Micah is pronounced my-kah

The name Micah, while less commonly used for girls, has also seen an increase in usage, reflecting a growing trend for gender-neutral names. The name's appeal lies in its Biblical origins as well as its soft, resonant sound, which may contribute to its steady popularity.

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Micah mean and stand for as a boy's name?

Meaning:

Hebrew: Prophet; who is like God?
Biblical: A male minor prophet in the Hebrew Bible

Gender: Male, unisex

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Micah is pronounced my-kah

The name Micah is of Hebrew origin, derived from the Biblical prophet who authored the Book of Micah, where he advocates for justice and fairness. The meaning "who is like God?" reflects a rhetorical question, implying the uniqueness and incomparability of God, which is a common thematic element in Biblical names. Micah is also a contracted form of Micaiah.

Boy name variations

Micah in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Micah Sanders from Heroes - A young boy with the ability to communicate with machines and electronics.
Micah Bell from Red Dead Redemption 2 - A main antagonist, known for his manipulative and ruthless behavior.
Micah Bayar from The Demon's Lexicon series - A magician with a complex relationship with the protagonist.
Micah Rood from American Folklore - A fictional character in American folklore rumored to be cursed after an act of violence.
Micah Morton from Gravity Falls - A minor character featured in the supernatural animated series.

Popularity of the Name Micah

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Micah has been growing in popularity, especially over the last decade. It's known for its strong biblical roots, as Micah was a prophet in the Hebrew Bible, which may contribute to its steady popularity among parents seeking a name with religious significance.

Micah has seen a trend towards becoming more popular in recent years, often finding its place within the top 100 names in the United States. This rise can be attributed to its appeal as a modern yet timeless name that carries significant historical and spiritual weight.

Historically, the Prophet Micah is one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament, known for his advocacy of justice and loyalty to God, making the name synonymous with virtues like strength and faithfulness. In terms of contemporary figures, while there are fewer well-known individuals named Micah, the name's unique sound and Biblical heritage have made it a favorite among new parents and those looking for a name that strikes a balance between tradition and distinctiveness.

Micah has also been a popular choice for fictional characters, as well, appearing in Charmed, Emily Owens, MD, Heroes, and the The Seven Realms series by Cinda Williams Chima.