If you’re looking for a unique yet classic name for your baby, then Jared might have crossed your mind. But before you make a decision, you’re probably wondering whether Jared is a male, female, or unisex name. We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide to the origins, meaning, and usage of this name.
The Origin and History of the Name Jared
Jared is derived from the Hebrew name Yared, which means “descent” or “to descend.” In the Old Testament, Jared was the sixth generation from Adam and the father of Enoch. According to Jewish tradition, he was a righteous man who walked with God and lived for 962 years.
The name Jared became popular in America in the 1960s and 1970s, and it has maintained a steady presence ever since.
Interestingly, the name Jared has also been used in popular culture. In the 2009 science fiction film “Avatar,” the main character’s last name is Sully, but his first name is Jake, which is revealed to be a nickname for his full name, which is Jared. Additionally, in the popular television show “Gilmore Girls,” one of the main characters, played by Milo Ventimiglia, is named Jess Mariano, but his full name is revealed to be Jess Jared Mariano.
Today, the name Jared continues to be a popular choice for parents naming their sons. It has also been used as a surname, with notable individuals such as Jared Leto, the American actor and musician, and Jared Kushner, the American businessman and political figure, carrying the name.
Jared as a Male Name: Meaning and Significance
Traditionally, Jared is considered a male name, and it has a strong and masculine sound to it. The name’s meaning of descent has been interpreted as a reference to the descent of the Holy Spirit or a noble lineage.
Parents who choose the name Jared for their son may be drawn to its biblical roots or the name’s popularity in modern culture. Famous Jareds include actor Jared Leto and Subway restaurant spokesman Jared Fogle.
Interestingly, the name Jared has also been used for female characters in literature and film. In the popular young adult book series “The Mortal Instruments,” one of the main characters is a female named Jocelyn Fairchild who goes by the nickname “Jace.” Additionally, in the 1995 film “To Die For,” Nicole Kidman’s character is named Suzanne Stone, but she takes on the alias “Jade” when she begins her career as a news anchor.
Jared as a Female Name: Uncommon but Possible
Although it’s uncommon, Jared can be used as a female name. Some people may prefer to spell it with a different variation or use it as a middle name – but ultimately, it’s up to individual preference. However, it’s worth noting that Jared’s origins and traditional usage have been male-centric, making it more commonly associated with boys.
It’s interesting to note that the name Jared has biblical origins and is derived from the Hebrew name Yared, which means “descent” or “to come down.” In the Bible, Jared was the father of Enoch and lived to be 962 years old. While the name has been predominantly used for boys, there is no reason why it cannot be used for girls as well. In fact, many parents are now choosing gender-neutral names for their children, and Jared could be a great option for those looking for a unique and unconventional name for their daughter.
The Rise of Unisex Names: An Overview
With the increasing popularity of gender-neutral and unisex names, many parents are more open to choosing names that can work for both boys and girls. Unisex names usually have a neutral sound, often a combination of traditional male and female names, or can be unisex on their own.
One of the reasons for the rise of unisex names is the desire for gender equality and breaking away from traditional gender roles. By giving a child a name that is not specifically associated with a certain gender, parents are promoting the idea that anyone can do anything regardless of their gender. Additionally, unisex names can also be seen as a way to avoid gender bias and discrimination in the workplace or other areas of life where gender may play a role.
Factors Influencing the Gender-Neutral Trend in Naming
Several factors contribute to the trend of gender-neutral names. The importance of equality and inclusivity in our society, the rejection of gender binaries, and the desire to break away from gender norms are a few of them. Celebrities also influence this trend with their unique choices of names for their children.
In some cases, parents may choose a unisex name to reflect their non-binary gender identity or support their child’s freedom to explore their gender identity in a more fluid way.
Another factor that contributes to the gender-neutral trend in naming is the desire for uniqueness. Parents may choose a gender-neutral name to give their child a name that is not commonly used or to avoid gender stereotypes associated with certain names. Additionally, some parents may choose a gender-neutral name to avoid potential discrimination or bias in the future, as studies have shown that names can impact job opportunities and other areas of life.
It is also worth noting that the trend of gender-neutral names is not limited to English-speaking countries. In many cultures, gender-neutral names have been used for centuries, and are often associated with spiritual or philosophical beliefs. For example, in Hinduism, the name “Arya” is considered gender-neutral and means “noble” or “honorable”. In Japan, the name “Haruka” is often used for both boys and girls and means “distant” or “far away”.
How Jared Has Been Used in Pop Culture
Over the past few decades, Jared has appeared in pop culture in various forms. In music, there are songs named after people with the name Jared, such as “Jared Leto” by 30 Seconds to Mars. In movies and TV shows, the name has been used for characters played by actors like Jared Padalecki in Supernatural.
The most notable cultural reference to the name Jared is perhaps the Subway spokesman Jared Fogle, who faced legal troubles for child pornography and sex crimes in 2015. As a result, this association has tainted the name’s image for some people.
However, there are also positive references to the name Jared in pop culture. Jared Harris is a well-known actor who has appeared in popular TV shows like Mad Men and Chernobyl. Additionally, Jared Diamond is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for his books on anthropology and geography.
Furthermore, the name Jared has been used in literature as well. In the book series The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare, one of the main characters is named Jace Wayland, whose real name is revealed to be Jonathan Christopher Morgenstern, also known as “J.C.” or Jared.
Common Variations of the Name Jared Across Cultures
While the name Jared has its roots in Hebrew, it has different variations and translations in other cultures. For example, in French, it can be spelled Gérard, while in Spanish, it’s written as Jerardo or Gerardo. Other variations include Yared in Amharic, Jarek in Polish, and Jari in Finnish.
In some cultures, the name Jared also has different meanings. In Arabic, the name is translated as “descending” or “coming down,” while in Swahili, it means “rose flower.” In Hindu, the name is associated with the god of thunder and rain, Indra. These variations and meanings show how the name Jared has evolved and been adapted across different cultures and languages.
The Cultural Significance of Naming Traditions
Naming traditions have deep cultural significance and vary from culture to culture. In some cultures, the family surname is given as the first name, while in others, children are named after saints or religious figures. In some cases, the meaning of the name or its association with family history plays a crucial role in choosing a name. Whatever the reasons may be for choosing a name, it’s an important decision that can shape a child’s identity and future.
In many African cultures, names are given based on the circumstances surrounding a child’s birth or the traits they exhibit as they grow up. For example, a child born during a time of hardship may be named “Ngozi,” which means “blessing” in Igbo. In some Native American cultures, names are chosen based on the natural world, such as “Running Deer” or “Singing Bird.”
As societies become more diverse and interconnected, naming traditions are also evolving. Many parents are now choosing names that reflect their cultural heritage or have a unique meaning. Some are even creating new names by combining elements from different cultures or inventing entirely new names. Regardless of the tradition or trend, the act of naming a child remains a powerful expression of identity and culture.
Famous Personalities Named Jared and Their Achievements
Several notable personalities share the name Jared, and they all have unique achievements that range from the fields of entertainment and music to science and technology. Here are a few examples:
– Jared Diamond: A Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for his works on anthropology, history, and ecology.
– Jared Harris: A British actor who has been nominated for Emmy and Golden Globe Awards for his roles in TV shows and movies like Mad Men and Chernobyl.
– Jared Kushner: A former advisor to US President Donald Trump and a successful businessman in his right.
– Jared Leto: An American actor, musician, and director who has won an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for his roles in movies like Dallas Buyers Club and Blade Runner 2049. He is also the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band Thirty Seconds to Mars.
How to Choose the Right Gender for Your Baby’s Name
Choosing a name for your baby is a big decision, and it should be based on various factors such as personal preference, cultural significance, and the name’s meaning and history. It’s essential to consider the long-term impact of the name and how it can shape a child’s identity.
If you’re looking for a gender-neutral name, consider unisex names like Cameron, Taylor, and Jordan. Alternatively, you can use variations of traditional names that can work for both genders.
Another factor to consider when choosing a gender for your baby’s name is the cultural and societal norms of your community. Some cultures have specific naming traditions that dictate gender-specific names, while others have more fluid naming practices. It’s important to research and understand these norms before making a decision.
Top Unisex Names That Are Trending in 2021
If you’re still on the fence about whether to choose a male, female, or unisex name, here’s a list of the top unisex names that are trending in 2021:
– Avery
– Charlie
– Elliot
– Finley
– Hayden
– Quinn
– Riley
– Rowan
– Taylor
Ultimately, whether you choose Jared as a male or unisex name, it’s a timeless classic that has endured the test of time.
That concludes our guide to the history, meaning, and usage of Jared, the name that can be male, female, or unisex depending on your preference. Whatever you decide to name your child, remember that the name is an integral part of their identity and should be chosen with care.
It’s worth noting that the trend towards unisex names is not a new phenomenon. In fact, many names that are now considered traditionally male or female were originally used for both genders. For example, the name Ashley was originally a male name in England, but became more commonly used for females in the United States in the 20th century. Similarly, the name Leslie was originally a male name in Scotland, but is now more commonly used for females in the United States.