Timothy Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Timothy
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name TIMOTHY. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Timothy
Gender
Male
Origin
Christian
Lucky Number
2
Meaning of the Name
Derived from the Greek name Τιμόθεος (Timotheos), meaning 'honoring God' or 'one who honors God.' It is a traditional Christian name often associated with Saint Timothy, a companion of Saint Paul in the New Testament.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Moon
Positive Nature
Diplomatic, friendly, artistic, empathetic.
Negative Traits
Over-sensitive, moody, indecisive, prone to self-pity.
Lucky Colours
Green, cream, white.
Lucky Days
Monday.
Lucky Stones
Pearl, moonstone.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 4.
Best Suited Professions
Diplomats, mediators, caregivers, artists.
What People Like About You
Cooperative spirit, friendliness, artistic talent.
Famous People Named Timothy
Timothy Leary
Psychologist and writer
Harvard psychologist who became a leading figure in the counterculture movement and psychedelic research
Timothy Dalton
Actor
Fourth actor to portray James Bond in films and acclaimed Shakespearean stage performer
Timothy Olyphant
Actor
Starred in popular TV series 'Justified' and 'Deadwood', known for his charismatic anti-hero roles
Timothy Chalamet
Actor
Academy Award-nominated actor known for roles in 'Call Me By Your Name' and 'Dune'
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
Throughout Western history, Timothy has maintained strong religious associations while also crossing into secular usage. During the Protestant Reformation, the name saw renewed popularity as Christians returned to biblical names. In English-speaking countries, it became particularly common among Puritan communities who valued its clear religious meaning. The 18th century Methodist revival under John and Charles Wesley further cemented Timothy's place in English naming traditions. The name carries the unique legacy of representing both youthful energy and spiritual maturity, creating a balance that has appealed to generations of parents seeking a name with depth, tradition, and positive associations.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Timothy are often perceived as thoughtful, reliable, and intellectually curious. They tend to exhibit a balanced combination of traditional values and modern thinking, making them adaptable in various social situations. Many Timothys display strong communication skills and a natural inclination toward leadership, though they often lead with empathy rather than authority. Their biblical namesake's characteristics—youthful energy combined with wisdom beyond their years—often manifest in Timothys being seen as mature and responsible from a young age, frequently taking on leadership roles in academic, professional, or community settings.
Timothys typically value deep, meaningful relationships over superficial connections and are known for their loyalty to friends and family. While often serious and conscientious in their responsibilities, many Timothys also possess a dry wit and subtle humor that emerges in comfortable settings. Their name's meaning 'one who honors God' sometimes translates into strong ethical principles and a sense of purpose in their personal and professional lives. This combination of reliability and depth makes Timothys often sought as advisors, mentors, and trusted friends. They tend to approach challenges with careful consideration rather than impulsivity, and their consistent nature makes them pillars in their communities and workplaces.
Modern Usage & Popularity
Timothy remains a consistently popular name in English-speaking countries, though its usage patterns have evolved significantly over recent decades. In the United States, Timothy peaked in popularity during the 1960s-1970s, ranking among the top 20 names for boys throughout this period, and has gradually declined but maintained steady usage. Currently, it sits within the top 200 names, appealing to parents who appreciate its classic sound and strong biblical heritage without being overly common. The name has seen a slight resurgence with the rising popularity of actor Timothée Chalamet, introducing a more contemporary, artistic association to the name. Timothy works well across socioeconomic backgrounds and continues to be chosen by both religious and secular families alike, though it maintains particularly strong usage in Christian communities. The common nickname 'Tim' provides a friendly, approachable alternative for casual contexts, while the full 'Timothy' carries more formal weight for professional settings, giving bearers flexibility in how they present themselves throughout life.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Timothy represents the bridge between youthful potential and spiritual wisdom, embodying the concept of 'the wisdom of youth'—the idea that age doesn't necessarily correlate with understanding or spiritual depth. The name carries deep connotations of mentorship and guidance, directly referencing the profound relationship between the apostle Paul and his young protégé Timothy in the Bible. This symbolic connection to mentorship extends beyond religious contexts to represent the passing of knowledge between generations. Timothy also symbolizes devotion and honor toward higher principles, whether religious, ethical, or intellectual. In a broader sense, the name represents reliability and steadfastness—qualities associated with its consistent popularity across generations. It suggests someone who honors traditions while remaining open to new ideas, representing balanced growth and thoughtful development. The name's Greek roots connect it to classical ideals of virtue and honor, while its Christian associations add layers of faith, service, and spiritual commitment symbolism, creating a rich tapestry of meaning that has maintained relevance for centuries.