Yonathan

Meaning of Yonathan

Originating from the Hebrew יְהוֹנָתָן (Yehonatan), signifying “Yahweh has given,” Yonathan constitutes a variant of Jonathan that preserves the name’s theistic resonance and venerable biblical heritage. In scriptural narratives, it denotes the devoted son of King Saul whose covenant with David has been the subject of extensive exegetical analysis, thereby embedding the name within a tradition of fidelity and moral integrity. Within Anglo-American onomastic practice, its phonological adaptation—yo-NAH-thun (US /joʊˈnɑθən/, UK /jɔːˈnɑθən/)—exhibits only minor dialectal variation while safeguarding its etymological core. Demographic data from the United States Social Security Administration indicate a modest but stable usage, with 40 male infants named Yonathan in 2024 (ranked 884th), a position that has oscillated moderately between the 840th and 920th ranks over the past decade. By virtue of its linguistic authenticity, historical depth and demographic consistency, Yonathan offers parents a name of deliberate distinction, blending scholarly gravitas with enduring spiritual significance.