Olivia Chen

By Olivia Chen
Historical Naming Consultant

Updated on September 07, 2024

Thaddeus

US Popularity Rank: 1871

Origin: Aramaic

Meaning: Heart, courageous heart; Friend; Gift of God

After looking at your little one for the first time, you might start looking for ways to remind them that they have captivated both your heart and soul. By giving baby the Aramaic boy’s name Thaddeus, you can do just that! Deriving from Thaddai, it means “heart,” “courageous heart,” or “friend.” It may also be a form of Theodore, which signifies “gift of God” in Greek. In the Christian Bible, Thaddeus, or Jude, was one of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ who helped spread the word of the gospel. With a heart of gold that’s full of love, baby Thaddeus will also go out of their way to help and teach others.