Naomi: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Naomi mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Hebrew: Pleasantness or pleasant one; above all
Japanese: Straight; beautiful

Gender: Female

Syllables: 3

Pronunciation: The name Naomi is pronounced nay-oh-mee

The name Naomi originates from the Hebrew name נָעֳמִי (Na'omi), meaning "pleasantness". In the Old Testament, Naomi is the mother-in-law of Ruth, and her story is told in the Book of Ruth, where she is noted for her loyalty and sweetness. The name has been used among Jews, Christians, and English speakers alike and has seen a revival in recent years due to its appealing meaning and elegant simplicity.

Although a popular Jewish name, Naomi didn't really become popular until the Protestant Reformation. The name also has separate Japanese origins as a unisex name meaning "straight and beautiful."

Girl name variations

Famous people with this first name

Naomi Watts

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Stephen King

Naomi in Pop Culture

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

Popularity of the Name Naomi

According to Social Security Administration data, Naomi has been steadily climbing in popularity in the United States. In recent years, it has consistently ranked among the top 100 names for girls. Naomi's appeal may be attributed to its smooth, melodic sound and its strong biblical roots.

Historically, Naomi is a name with deep Biblical origins, associated with pleasantness and delight. The name Naomi once referred to Ruth's mother-in-law in the Jewish Old Testament. During Shavuot, when the story of Ruth was read at the synagogue, the name Naomi was symbolically given.

\Notable Naomis include supermodel Naomi Campbell, actress Naomi Watts singer Naomi Judd, and writer Naomi Wolf. Fictional characters named Naomi have made appearances in various media, such as Naomi Wildman in the television series Star Trek: Voyager, Naomi Lapaglia in the movie The Wolf of Wall Street, and Naomi Clark in the series 90210. Naomi has also been chosen as a character name in Animal Crossing, Supernatural, Private Practice, and Pretty Little Liars.