Ezraעֶזְרָא

/EZ-ruh/

Hebrew

Ezra is a Hebrew baby name pronounced /EZ-ruh/. The name Ezra is a beautiful classic meaning 'help' or 'helper'.

Meaning of Ezra

The name Ezra is a beautiful classic meaning 'help' or 'helper'.

Derived from the Hebrew word 'ezer', the name is most famously associated with the biblical prophet Ezra, who led a group of Judean exiles from Babylon back to Jerusalem. It is thought to be a shortened form of the name Azaryahu, which translates to 'Yahweh helps'. Historically, it has been a significant name in Jewish tradition and gained widespread popularity in English-speaking countries following the Protestant Reformation.

Origin
Hebrew
Pronunciation
/EZ-ruh/

Cultural background

While historically most common in Jewish communities, Ezra has become a trendy, secular choice in the United States and Europe over the last two decades. It is frequently cited as a 'vintage-cool' name that fits the modern preference for short, vowel-heavy biblical names.

Variations & nicknames

  • Esdras
  • Ezrah
  • Ezri
  • Ezer
  • Ez

Famous people named Ezra

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

  • Ezra Pound

    Major figure in the early modernist poetry movement

    Literature · 20th Century

  • Ezra Miller

    American actor known for 'The Flash' and 'Fantastic Beasts'

    Film · Modern

  • Ezra Koenig

    Lead vocalist and guitarist of the band Vampire Weekend

    Music · Modern

  • Ezra Cornell

    Businessman and co-founder of Cornell University

    Education · 19th Century

  • Ezra Bridger

    Main protagonist of the series Star Wars Rebels

    Fiction · Modern

Frequently asked about Ezra

Is Ezra a biblical name?
Yes, Ezra was a Jewish scribe and priest in the Old Testament who led the return of exiles to Jerusalem and reintroduced the Torah.
Is Ezra a boy or girl name?
Ezra is traditionally a masculine name, though it has seen increasing use as a unisex name for girls in recent years.
What does the name Ezra symbolize?
The name is often associated with wisdom, leadership, and the act of providing support or assistance to others.

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