Skip to content

Name meaning & originAdam אָדָם

/AD-um/

Make a name keepsake

Adam is a Hebrew boy's name pronounced /AD-um/. The name literally translates to 'man' or 'mankind' and is often associated with the earth.

Share this name

Meaning of Adam

The name literally translates to 'man' or 'mankind' and is often associated with the earth.

It is derived from the Hebrew word 'adamah', meaning 'ground' or 'red earth,' referencing the biblical account of the first man's creation from the dust of the ground. In linguistic terms, it also shares roots with the word 'adom', meaning 'red,' possibly referring to the ruddy complexion of human skin. The name has served as a foundational moniker across Abrahamic religions for millennia.

Origin
Hebrew
Pronunciation
/AD-um/

Cultural background

Adam is a classic, perennial favorite in Western countries and remains widely used across Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures globally.

Variations & nicknames

  • Adão
  • Adamo
  • Adán
  • Adas
  • adem
  • Adie

Famous people named Adam

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Adam Smith

    Economist and philosopher known as the father of modern economics

    Economics · 18th Century

  • Adam Driver

    Academy Award-nominated actor known for 'Star Wars' and 'Marriage Story'

    Film · Modern

  • Adam Levine

    Lead singer of the pop-rock band Maroon 5

    Music · Modern

  • Adam Sandler

    Prolific comedic actor, screenwriter, and producer

    Film · Modern

  • Adam West

    Actor best known for portraying Batman in the 1960s television series

    Film · 20th Century

  • Adam Mickiewicz

    National poet of Poland, a key figure in Polish Romanticism

    Literature · 19th Century

Frequently asked about Adam

Is Adam a biblical name?
Yes, Adam is the name of the first human created by God in the Book of Genesis and the Quran.
What is the female version of Adam?
While Adam is traditionally male, feminine variations include Adamina, Adamine, or Addison.
Is Adam a popular name today?
Adam has maintained consistent popularity for decades and remains a top choice in many European and North American countries.

Love Adam? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Hebrew names each week — free, no spam.

By signing up you agree to get these name emails. We use your email only for them; unsubscribe any time from privacy requests. See our privacy policy. 18+ only.

Compare Adam with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Hebrew names

See all Hebrew names