Samson

Boy Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/ˈsæm.sən/

Samson: a male name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun". It derives from the Hebrew word "shemesh > Šimšôn > shimshôn".

In Hebrew tradition, Samson holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Hebrew culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Samson

Quick facts about Samson
OriginHebrew
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

shemesh > Šimšôn > shimshôn

How to Pronounce Samson

Samson is pronounced /ˈsæm.sən/(Hebrew)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Sam-son
  2. Say it like: "SAM-SON"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Samson enjoys international appeal, used in 10 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, norwegian, icelandic, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishnorwegianicelandicold norseswedishdanishfaroesefinnishgreenlandicgerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Samson
What does the name Samson mean?
Samson means "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple.". The name comes from shemesh > Šimšôn > shimshôn. In its original form, the name derives from shemesh (שֵׁמְֵשׁ) Shimshôn (שִׁמְשׁוֹן) Sampsṓn (Σαμψών). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Samson for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Samson's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Samson?
Samson is a hebrew name. The name traces back to shemesh > Šimšôn > shimshôn. The original form shemesh (שֵׁמְֵשׁ) Shimshôn (שִׁמְשׁוֹן) Sampsṓn (Σαμψών) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its hebrew roots, Samson spread to become common in english, norwegian, icelandic, old norse and other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Samson a boy or girl name?
Samson is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In hebrew tradition, Samson has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Samson?
Samson is pronounced "/ˈsæm.sən/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Samson is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, norwegian, icelandic, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Samson can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root shemesh > Šimšôn > shimshôn influences how Samson sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Samson?
Samson is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Samson offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Samson's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Samson holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Samson commonly used?
Samson spans multiple cultures, including english, norwegian, icelandic, and 7 other traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Samson found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Samson, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Samson into their naming traditions. A child named Samson will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Samson is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Samson?
Samson carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “shemesh > Šimšôn > Shimshôn,” meaning “sun child, a little sun, man of the sun.” Samson is the third-to-last of the Judges of the ancient Israelites mentioned in the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible), Book of Judges chapters 13 to 16. God granted Samson supernatural strength in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Samson originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Samson sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Samson often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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