Jordanיַרְדֵן

/JOR-dun/

Hebrew

Jordan is a Hebrew baby name pronounced /JOR-dun/. This name literally translates to 'to flow down' or 'descend'.

Meaning of Jordan

This name literally translates to 'to flow down' or 'descend'.

The name is derived from the Hebrew word 'Yarden', referring to the Jordan River that flows between the countries of Jordan and Israel. Historically, it gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages after Crusaders returned from the Holy Land bringing water from the river to baptize their children. It fell out of common use for several centuries before experiencing a major resurgence in the late 20th century.

Origin
Hebrew
Pronunciation
/JOR-dun/

Cultural background

While historically more common for boys, it became a highly popular unisex name in Western countries, particularly in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, during the 1980s and 1990s.

Variations & nicknames

  • Jordyn
  • Jordana
  • Jordi
  • Jordon
  • Jourdain
  • Giordano

Famous people named Jordan

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

  • Jordan Peele

    Academy Award-winning filmmaker and comedian

    Film · Modern

  • Jordan Peterson

    Canadian psychologist and media commentator

    Academia · Modern

  • Jordan Pickford

    Professional goalkeeper for the England national team

    Sport · Modern

  • Jordan Scott

    English novelist and filmmaker

    Literature · Modern

  • Jordan Baker

    Key character in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby

    Literature · 1920s

Frequently asked about Jordan

Is Jordan a unisex name?
Yes, Jordan is widely used for all genders, though the 'Jordyn' spelling is more frequently associated with girls in recent years.
What is the biblical significance of the name Jordan?
It refers to the river where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, making it a significant name in Christian tradition.
Is Jordan a common surname as well?
Yes, Jordan is a well-established surname in English, French, and German-speaking cultures, famously borne by basketball star Michael Jordan.

Love Jordan? Get more names like it

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

Compare Jordan with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Hebrew names

See all Hebrew names
Find more names like Jordan