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Zebedee
1. Zebedee name meaning and origin
Zebedee, a name of Hebrew origin, derives from the Hebrew name 'Zebadyah' (זְבַדְיָה), which means 'gift of God' or 'Yahweh has bestowed.' In the New Testament, Zebedee appears as the father of the apostles James and John, who were fishermen before Jesus called them to become 'fishers of men.' The name combines 'zabad' (to give or bestow) with a form of the divine name, reflecting the ancient Hebrew tradition of theophoric names that incorporate divine elements.
Through biblical transmission, the name Zebedee entered European languages via Greek (Ζεβεδαῖος, Zebedaios) and Latin (Zebedaeus) translations. While never among the most common given names, it has persisted throughout Christian history, particularly in religious communities with strong biblical traditions. The name represents the theme of divine blessing through offspring, a concept highly valued in ancient Near Eastern cultures where children were considered gifts from God.
2. Zebedee name popularity
Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Zebedee
United States
United Kingdom
Zebedee is a distinctively rare masculine name with biblical origins, derived from the Hebrew name Zebadiah, meaning "gift of God." Despite its ancient heritage as the father of the apostles James and John in the New Testament, the name has never achieved widespread popularity in either the United States or the United Kingdom, failing to rank among the top recorded names in either country.
While Zebedee maintains recognition due to its biblical connections, it remains an uncommon choice for parents. The name occasionally appears in literature and popular culture, which has helped maintain its recognition without significantly boosting its usage. Its distinctive sound and spelling make it a truly unique option for those seeking an uncommon name with historical roots.
3. Variations and nicknames of Zebedee
The name Zebedee, with its biblical origins, has evolved across different languages and cultures throughout history. In its original Hebrew form, the name appears as Zebadyah or Zebadiah, meaning 'gift of God' or 'God has bestowed.' As Christianity spread throughout Europe, various linguistic adaptations emerged. In Greek manuscripts, the name transformed into Zebedaios, while Latin texts rendered it as Zebedaeus. Romance languages further modified the name, with Italian presenting Zebedeo, Spanish offering Zebedeo or Cebedeo, and French introducing Zébédée. In Slavic countries, variants like Zebedeusz (Polish) and Zevedey (Russian) gained prominence. English-speaking regions eventually settled on Zebedee, though the spelling Zebadiah occasionally appears in historical records.
While the formal variants maintain a certain gravitas, the informal nicknames associated with Zebedee offer a glimpse into its everyday use. The most common diminutive is undoubtedly Zeb, which provides a concise, friendly alternative that has remained popular for centuries. Other affectionate shortenings include Zebby, Zed, and occasionally Dede or Dee, typically derived from the final syllable. Children bearing the name might find themselves called Zebbie or Zebs by family members. In academic or professional settings, some Zebedees opt for the initial Z as a stand-alone identifier. Regional variations produce nicknames like Zebo in parts of Scotland and the rarely heard but charming Zeddy in certain English counties. Though relatively uncommon in modern times, this distinctive biblical name continues to be appreciated for its rich heritage and character, with its various nicknames offering flexibility across formal and casual contexts.
4. Best name combinations with Zebedee
Middle names that pair well with Zebedee:
- Zebedee Alexander
- Zebedee Gabriel
- Zebedee Nathaniel
- Zebedee James
- Zebedee Theodore
- Zebedee Elijah
- Zebedee Solomon
- Zebedee Josiah
- Zebedee Bartholomew
- Zebedee Isaiah
- Zebedee Matthias
- Zebedee Thaddeus
- Zebedee Malachi
- Zebedee Obadiah
- Zebedee Emmanuel
- Zebedee Augustine
- Zebedee Phineas
- Zebedee Zachariah
- Zebedee Benedict
- Zebedee Cornelius
Names that go well when Zebedee is used as a middle name:
- Abigail Zebedee
- Esther Zebedee
- Miriam Zebedee
- Elizabeth Zebedee
- Deborah Zebedee
- Hannah Zebedee
- Naomi Zebedee
- Rebecca Zebedee
- Joanna Zebedee
- Tabitha Zebedee
- Susanna Zebedee
- Rachel Zebedee
- Martha Zebedee
- Leah Zebedee
- Sarah Zebedee
- Judith Zebedee
- Ruth Zebedee
- Priscilla Zebedee
- Lydia Zebedee
- Magdalene Zebedee
5. Numerology of Zebedee name
In Pythagorean numerology, each letter corresponds to a specific number:
1 (A, J, S), 2 (B, K, T), 3 (C, L, U), 4 (D, M, V), 5 (E, N, W), 6 (F, O, X), 7 (G, P, Y), 8 (H, Q, Z), 9 (I, R)
For the name "Zebedee":
Z=8, E=5, B=2, E=5, D=4, E=5, E=5
Destiny Number (Expression Number):
8+5+2+5+4+5+5 = 34 = 3+4 = 7
The Destiny Number 7 indicates a deeply analytical, introspective, and philosophical nature. You're naturally drawn to seeking knowledge and understanding the mysteries of life. Career-wise, you excel in research, analysis, specialized fields, or spiritual pursuits where you can work independently. In relationships, you may be reserved and selective, seeking intellectual connection and depth over casual interactions. You need time alone to recharge and may struggle with opening up emotionally.
Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):
E+E+E+E = 5+5+5+5 = 20 = 2+0 = 2
With a Soul Urge Number 2, your heart deeply desires harmony, cooperation, and meaningful connections. You're emotionally sensitive and naturally diplomatic. In relationships, you seek balance and partnership, often putting others' needs before your own. In career settings, you excel at teamwork and mediation, preferring collaborative environments where peace prevails. Your inner motivation comes from creating unity and avoiding conflict.
Personality Number:
Z+B+D = 8+2+4 = 14 = 1+4 = 5
A Personality Number 5 presents you to others as adaptable, versatile, and freedom-loving. People perceive you as adventurous and dynamic, someone who embraces change and resists restriction. In your career, you appear progressive and resourceful, comfortable with variety and new challenges. In relationships, you come across as exciting and unpredictable, though potentially restless if feeling confined. You externally project confidence, curiosity, and a progressive spirit.
Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.
6. Zebedee name in pop culture
Name
Description
Zebedee (The Magic Roundabout)
A character from the popular children's television series 'The Magic Roundabout', depicted as a moustachioed wizard with a magic beard who bounces on a spring
Zebedee (Bob the Builder)
A character in the children's animated series 'Bob the Builder', appearing as a blue and yellow striped crane
Zebedee Soanes
A well-known BBC Radio 4 continuity announcer and newsreader who has become a cultural figure in British broadcasting
Zebedee Tring
A character in Terry Pratchett's Discworld novel 'Making Money', who works as a clerk at the Royal Bank of Ankh-Morpork
Zebedee (James Bond)
Q's assistant in the James Bond film 'The World Is Not Enough', played by actor Robert Carlyle
7. Famous people named Zebedee
Name
Description
Zebedee Soanes
British radio broadcaster and BBC Radio 4 news presenter who is also known for narrating the CBeebies program 'In the Night Garden'
Zebedee Row
Australian actor and model who appeared in 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales' and various Australian television productions
Zebedee Parkes
Australian photographer, filmmaker, and social activist known for his documentary work on social justice issues
Zebedee Powers
Character voiced by actor Jack Haley in the 1967 animated film 'Jack and the Beanstalk'
Zebedee 'Zeb' Colter
Stage name of professional wrestling manager Wayne Maurice Keown, who worked with the WWE and managed wrestlers like Jack Swagger
Zebedee Jones
British abstract painter whose work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries across Europe
Zebedee Troup
Historical jazz musician from the early 20th century who contributed to the New Orleans jazz scene
Zebedee Armstrong
Character portrayed in Australian television series 'The Gods of Wheat Street', played by actor Bruce Carter
Zebedee Helm
British cartoonist and illustrator whose work has appeared in publications including The Spectator and Private Eye
Zebedee 'Zeb' Schofield
Character from the British children's television show 'The Magic Roundabout', known for his spiral spring-like body and bouncing movement
8. Names similar to Zebedee
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Baby name lists including Zebedee
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