History and Meanings

Noah (pronounced NOH-ah) is a boy's name that has been used since Biblical times to refer to the man who not only invented wine, but built an ark for refuge of animals to get out of the rain that lasted 40 days and 40 nights. The name has a Hebrew origin and although its original meaning is "peaceful", other meanings include "long-lived", "restful", "comforter", or "wanderer".

Used since the 17th century, Noah has experienced an increase in popularity since 1990. It has remained one of the top names for baby boys since 1996. In 2006, it was the 15th most popular name for boys and the 20th most popular overall name. Noah is also ranked 15th on the Social Security Administration ranking for babies born in the past year. It is primarily used in English and Hebrew speaking countries.

Noah has been one of the most 1,000 popular names for babies since the 1880s. Although it has increased and decreased in popularity over time, it may remain popular for its simple spelling and pronunciation. Also, its Biblical origins may inspire religious parents to keep the name popular in most recent years. Noah's Ark is one of the most beloved Bible stories and a good lesson to teach to kids growing up in a religious home.

VARIANTS

Noa: a female version of Noah which means "movement" in Hebrew.

Noach: a boy's name that has similar meanings of Noah ("peace" and "rest") and Hebrew origins.

Noak: Another boy's name with unknown meaning but possibly of Babylonian origin.

No: another male version of the name

Noe: A boy's or girl's name; pronounced "NO-eh". It means "rest" or "peace" in French.

Norrie: A Scottish form of "Norman"; meaning "Northman".

NAMESAKES

Actor Noah Wyle, born on June 4, 1971; is an actor best known for his role as Dr. John Carter on NBC's hit television show "ER".

Noah Beery Jr. was an actor born on August 10, 1913 who had a lead role on the 1970s TV series "The Rockford Files".

Noah Deitrich, born February 28, 1889 was the CEO of the Howard Hughes Empire.

Noah Webster, born October 16, 1759, was a lexicographer who wrote an English dictionary that led the way for the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

Noah Baumbach, a film director born on September 3, 1969. He has directed several movies, including the 1995 movie "Kicking and Screaming" and the 2000 drama "Highball".

OTHER FACTS

Songs with the name Noah include "Noah" by Harry Belafonte and two songs from the soundtrack of the popular romantic movie "The Notebook": Noah's Journey and Noah's Last Letter.

The Einstein Noah Restaurant Group operates nine Noah's Bagel restaurants in the Oregon area.

"The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn" was a 1999 made for TV movie about a farmer who fought real estate developers to keep his land. The movie was directed by Gregg Champion and its stars included Mary-Louise Parker.

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