Micah Name Meaning: Origin and Significance (2024)

Table of Contents

Origin of Micah

Micah is an old Hebrew name that has been in use for centuries. It has its roots in the Hebrew language, and its meaning is “Who is like God?” The name is derived from the Hebrew word ‘מִיכָה’ (pronounced MEE-kah), which is a contracted form of ‘Micaiah’.

The name Micah has a strong association with the Bible, and it appears several times in the Old Testament. There is even a chapter of the Bible called the “Book of Micah,” which is attributed to the prophet Micah. The book is a collection of prophesies that alternates between doom and restoration.

The name Micah is also closely related to the Hebrew word for God, ‘El’. The name ‘Mica’ is a shortened form of ‘Micah’ and means “Who is like God?” in Hebrew. Similarly, ‘Micha’ is another variant of the name that is derived from the same Hebrew root.

Another name that is related to Micah is ‘Michael’. Michael is a masculine given name that is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Mikha’el’, which means “Who is like God?” in Hebrew. The name has its roots in the Old Testament and is associated with the archangel Michael.

In conclusion, Micah is an ancient Hebrew name that has a strong association with the Bible and the Hebrew language. It is derived from the Hebrew word ‘מִיכָה’, which means “Who is like God?” and is closely related to the names ‘Mica’, ‘Micha’, and ‘Michael’.

Meaning of Micah

Micah is a name with an old Hebrew origin that means “Who is like God?” The name comes from the combination of two Hebrew words, “mi” meaning “who” and “cha” meaning “like.” The name is theophoric, which means it bears the name of God, and it’s a biblical name that appears several times in the Bible.

In the Old Testament, Micah was one of the twelve minor prophets who authored the Book of Micah. The book alternates between prophesies of doom and prophesies of restoration. Micah’s prophesies were directed towards the people of Judah and Jerusalem, and he warned them about their sins and the consequences they would face if they didn’t repent.

The name Micah is similar to the slightly longer Hebrew name Michael, which also means “who is like God” but includes the word “el,” or God. The name Micah is often used as a given name for boys, but it can also be used for girls.

The name Micah has different variations in different languages. In Hebrew, the name is spelled “מִיכָה,” and it’s pronounced “MIE-kə” in English. The name is also related to other Hebrew names, such as Micaiah, which means “who is like Yah,” and Micha, which means “who is like the Lord.”

Overall, the name Micah has a strong biblical and theophoric meaning that conveys a sense of humility and reverence towards God. If you’re looking for a name that’s unique, meaningful, and has a strong connection to spirituality, Micah might be the perfect choice for you.

Popularity of Micah

Micah is a popular name that has been around for centuries. The name has its roots in Hebrew and means “Who is like God?” It is a biblical name that appears several times in the Bible. Micah is also the name of a prophet in the Bible.

According to the Social Security Administration, Micah has been a popular name for babies in the United States since the end of the 20th century. The name has been in the top 1000 baby names for boys every year since 1975. In 2022, Micah was ranked as the 96th most popular name for boys in the United States.

The popularity of Micah can be attributed to its strong biblical roots and its modern sound. The name has a timeless quality that appeals to parents looking for a traditional name with a contemporary feel.

Micah is also a popular name for baby girls. While it is more commonly used for boys, Micah has been in the top 1000 baby names for girls since 1997. In 2022, Micah was ranked as the 587th most popular name for girls in the United States.

Overall, Micah is a name that has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice for parents looking for a strong, traditional name with a modern twist.

Gender Association of Micah

Micah is a name that has been used for both boys and girls. Although it is traditionally considered a masculine name, it has become increasingly popular as a gender-neutral name in recent years. The name Micah has a biblical origin and means “Who is like God?”.

In the United States, the name Micah has been more commonly given to boys than girls. According to the Social Security Administration, Micah was ranked as the 103rd most popular boys’ name in 2022, while it was only ranked as the 986th most popular girls’ name. However, it is worth noting that the name has been gaining popularity as a girls’ name in recent years.

Micah is a great choice for parents who want a name that is both unique and meaningful. It is a name that can be used for both boys and girls, and it has a strong biblical origin. Whether you decide to use it for a boy or a girl, Micah is a name that is sure to make a lasting impression.

Here is a quick summary of the gender association of Micah:

  • Micah is traditionally considered a masculine name, but it has become increasingly popular as a gender-neutral name in recent years.
  • In the United States, Micah has been more commonly given to boys than girls, but it has been gaining popularity as a girls’ name in recent years.
  • Micah is a great choice for parents who want a unique and meaningful name for their child, regardless of gender.

Famous People Named Micah

If you’re looking for some famous people named Micah, you’ve come to the right place. Here are a few notable individuals with the name Micah:

  • Micah Hyde: Micah Hyde is a professional football player who currently plays for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL. He played college football at the University of Iowa and was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
  • Micah Johnson: Micah Johnson is a former professional baseball player who played in the MLB for the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves. He was drafted by the White Sox in the ninth round of the 2009 MLB Draft.
  • Micah Fowler: Micah Fowler is an actor who is best known for his role as JJ DiMeo on the ABC sitcom Speechless. He has also appeared in films such as Labor Day and The Last Days of American Crime.
  • Micah P. Hinson: Micah P. Hinson is a singer-songwriter who has released several albums over the years. His music is often described as a blend of folk, country, and indie rock.
  • Micah Kogo: Micah Kogo is a Kenyan long-distance runner who has won several medals in international competitions. He is the former world record holder in the 10 km road race.
  • Micah Owings: Micah Owings is a former professional baseball player who played in the MLB for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Cincinnati Reds, and San Diego Padres. He was known for his ability to both pitch and hit.
  • Micah Stampley: Micah Stampley is a gospel singer who has released several albums over the years. He has won several awards for his music, including a Stellar Award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
  • Micah Williams: Micah Williams is a professional football player who currently plays for the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League. He played college football at the University of Southern Mississippi.

These are just a few examples of famous people named Micah. As you can see, the name has been given to individuals from a variety of different fields, including sports, entertainment, and music.

Micah in the Bible

Micah is a name that appears several times in the Bible. The name means “Who is like God?” and is derived from the Hebrew word “Micayehû.” The name is sometimes found with theophoric extensions, such as in “Michaiah” or “Michaihu,” which mean “who is like Yahweh?”

The Book of Micah is one of the 12 minor prophets in the Old Testament. Micah was a prophet who lived during the time when Israel had no king and “every man did what was right in his own eyes.” Micah’s prophecies were directed towards both Israel and Judah, and he spoke about issues such as social injustice, idolatry, and the coming of the Messiah.

Micah was from Moresheth, a small town in southwest Judah. He prophesied from approximately 737 to 696 BC and experienced the devastation brought by Sennacherib’s invasion of Judah in 701 BC.

The name Micah is also associated with other biblical figures, such as Micaiah, a prophet who opposed King Ahab and was imprisoned for his prophecies, and Micah, a man who lived during the time of the Judges and stole silver from his mother.

Overall, the name Micah has strong biblical roots and is associated with themes of grace and justice. It is a name that has been used for centuries and continues to be popular today.

Similar and Related Names

If you like the name Micah, you may also be interested in some similar and related names. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Mika: This is a Finnish name that means “who is like God” and is a shortened version of the name Mikaela. It’s a great alternative to Micah if you’re looking for a more unique name.
  • Liam: This Irish name means “strong-willed warrior” and has been growing in popularity in recent years. It’s a strong, classic name that would pair well with Micah as a sibling name.
  • Mikha’el: This is the Hebrew version of the name Michael and means “who is like God.” It’s a more traditional and less common option than Micah.
  • Mikko: This is a Finnish name that means “who is like God” and is a diminutive form of Mikael. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s similar to Micah but a little more unique.
  • Mikio: This is a Japanese name that means “tree trunk man” and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s a little more unusual than Micah.
  • Maka: This is a Hawaiian name that means “earth” and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s a little more nature-inspired than Micah.
  • Makai: This is a Hawaiian name that means “toward the sea” and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s a little more adventurous than Micah.
  • Mical: This is a Hebrew name that means “who is like God” and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s similar to Micah but a little more traditional.
  • Michal: This is a Hebrew name that means “who is like God” and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s similar to Micah but a little more feminine.
  • Miche: This is a French name that means “who is like God” and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s similar to Micah but a little more unique.
  • Mickey/Micky: These are diminutive forms of the name Michael and are great options if you’re looking for a nickname for Micah.
  • Mike: This is a shortened version of the name Michael and is a great option if you’re looking for a more traditional name.
  • McKay: This is a Scottish name that means “son of fire” and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s a little more unique than Micah.
  • Michaela: This is a feminine version of the name Michael and is a great option if you’re looking for a name that’s similar to Micah but a little more feminine.

Micah in Different Cultures

Micah is a name that has been used across different cultures and regions of the world. Here are some examples of how the name Micah is perceived in different cultures:

German and Dutch

In German and Dutch cultures, Micah is a relatively uncommon name. It is not a traditional name in these cultures, and it is not often used as a given name. However, some families with German or Dutch roots may choose to name their child Micah due to its biblical origins.

Puritans

Micah was a popular name among Puritans in the 17th century. Puritans were a religious group that believed in living a simple life and following strict moral codes. They often chose biblical names for their children, and Micah was a popular choice due to its association with the prophet Micah in the Old Testament.

Family Name

Micah can also be used as a family name. In some cultures, it is common for family names to be passed down from generation to generation. If Micah is used as a family name, it may be because a family member was named after the biblical prophet or because it has a special meaning to the family.

Version

Micah is a name that has been used in different versions of the Bible. In the King James Version, Micah is the name of one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament. In other versions of the Bible, the name may be spelled differently or translated into a different language.

Traditional

Micah is a traditional name with Hebrew origins. It means “who is like God” and is often associated with strength, wisdom, and righteousness. In some cultures, the name Micah is believed to bring good luck or protection to the person who bears it.

Given Name

Micah is a popular given name in modern times, especially in English-speaking countries. It is often chosen for its biblical origins and its meaning of “who is like God.” Micah is a unisex name, meaning it can be given to both boys and girls.

In conclusion, Micah is a name that has been used across different cultures and regions of the world. Its biblical origins and meaning of “who is like God” have made it a popular choice for families looking for a traditional or meaningful name. Whether used as a given name or a family name, Micah has a rich history and cultural significance.

Alternative Spellings and Pronunciations

If you’re considering naming your child Micah, you may want to know about its alternative spellings and pronunciations. Here are a few variations:

  • Mika: This spelling is a popular alternative for parents who prefer a more feminine-looking name for their daughters.
  • Myka: This spelling is also used for girls and is a more modern variation of the name.
  • Mick: This nickname is often used for boys named Micah.
  • Miki: This is another nickname option for boys named Micah.
  • Meica: This is a rare variation of the name and is not commonly used.

When it comes to pronunciation, there are a few different ways to say Micah. Here are the most common pronunciations:

  • MYE-kə: This is the most common pronunciation and is often used in the United States.
  • MI-kə: This pronunciation is also commonly used.
  • MEE-kə: This is a less common pronunciation but is still considered acceptable.

Overall, Micah is a versatile name that can be spelled and pronounced in different ways. Whether you choose the traditional spelling or opt for a more modern variation, the name Micah remains a popular choice for parents.

Micah as a Surname

Micah is not a very common surname, but it does exist. According to the Surname Database, it derives from the Hebrew male given name Micah, which means “who is like the Lord” and was an alternative form of Michael. Michael is ultimately from the Hebrew “Micha-el,” which is the war cry of the Archangel Michael, meaning “Who is like God.”

The Micah surname is more prevalent in the United States than in other parts of the world. In fact, the majority of people with the surname Micah live in the United States. It is also a relatively uncommon surname, with only a few hundred people in the United States having this last name.

One notable person with the surname Micah is the Nigerian footballer, Michael Micah. Michael Micah is a professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for the Nigerian Premier League club, Enugu Rangers. He has also played for several other Nigerian clubs, including Shooting Stars FC and Nasarawa United FC.

Another notable person with the surname Micah is the American musician, Micah P. Hinson. Micah P. Hinson is a singer-songwriter from Texas who has released several albums since 2004. He is known for his unique blend of folk, country, and indie rock music.

In addition to these notable individuals, there are likely many other people with the Micah surname who have made significant contributions to their communities or fields of work. However, due to the relative rarity of this surname, information about these individuals may be more difficult to find.

Micah Name Meaning: Origin and Significance (2024)

FAQs

Micah Name Meaning: Origin and Significance? ›

Micah (pronounced MY-kuh) derives from the Hebrew language and translates to English as "who is like (God)." Micah consists of two Hebrew words: "mi" meaning "who," and "cha" meaning "like." One prominent linguistic explanation of Micah suggests that the word "God" is implied in the meaning of the name.

What does the name Micah represent? ›

Meaning:who resembles God? Micah, a variation of Michael, is a gender-neutral name of Hebrew origin. Derived from the Hebrew mikha'el, meaning "who is like the Lord?" Micah is rooted in the biblical prophet Micah of Moresheth.

What is the Latin meaning of Micah? ›

Derived from Hebrew origin, Micah means “who is like the Lord or prophet?” It may also refer to the metal Mica in Latin. The suffix Yah in Yahweh means “who is like Yahweh?” that comes from Michaiah or Michaihu, which is Mikhayhu in its modern and Mîḵā́yhû in Tiberian forms. Micah is spelled Micha in German and Dutch.

What did Micah do in the Bible? ›

He prophesied the future destruction of Jerusalem and Samaria, the destruction and then future restoration of the Judean state, and he rebuked the people of Judah for dishonesty and idolatry.

What is the origin of the name Mica? ›

Meaning:loved friend; Who is like God? Mica is a feminine name of Latin and Hebrew origins. Coming from the Hebrew name Micah, it translates to the question “Who is like God?” This makes is a short, unique way to share your faith with your bundle of joy.

Why was Micah so important? ›

Micah was known for criticizing unjust power, advocating for the oppressed, and prophesizing the downfall and restoration of Judah and Israel. He also predicted the birth of the Messiah in Bethlehem.

Does Micah mean who is like Yahweh? ›

The Book of Micah is the sixth of the twelve minor prophets in the Hebrew Bible. Ostensibly, it records the sayings of Micah, whose name is Mikayahu (Hebrew: מִיכָיָ֫הוּ), meaning "Who is like Yahweh?", an 8th-century BCE prophet from the village of Moresheth in Judah (Hebrew name from the opening verse: מיכה המרשתי).

What is a nickname for Micah? ›

100 Nicknames for Micah:
  • Micky.
  • Mic.
  • Mick.
  • Mimi.
  • Mica.
  • Mike.
  • Micachu.
  • MicMac.
Apr 1, 2023

Is Micah a rare name? ›

Micah was the 107th most popular boys name and 977th most popular girls name. In 2021 there were 3,583 baby boys and 263 baby girls named Micah. 1 out of every 519 baby boys and 1 out of every 6,766 baby girls born in 2021 are named Micah.

What does the Hebrew name Micha mean? ›

Origin:Hebrew. Meaning:Who is like Yahweh? Micha is a masculine name of Hebrew origins.

What does God want Micah? ›

Micah Asks God a Question

Sacrifices? My first born? (Micah 6:7) God responds: “No, not your gifts, your words or even your most prized possession. I want you to do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with me.”

What does Micah teach? ›

Micah identifies the sins of idolatry and the oppression of the poor by the upper classes as the reasons for the Israelites' imminent destruction. He also condemns corrupt religious teachers who teach for money. Micah 4–5 Micah prophesies of the restoration of Israel.

What did Micah prophecy about Jesus? ›

As recorded in Micah 5, Micah prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem and that in the last days the remnant of Jacob (Israel) would triumph over its oppressors.

What is the simple definition of mica? ›

mica. noun. mi·​ca ˈmī-kə : any of various colored or transparent mineral silicates crystallizing in monoclinic forms that readily separate into very thin leaves.

What does mica translate to in English? ›

Meaning of mica in English

Your lamp is backed with mica, a silicate mineral that is very resistant to heat and electricity.

What is the origin of mica? ›

The world's chief deposits of mica are found in India at Bihar and in the Nellore district of Madras. Over 50% of the mica used today comes from these two regions. Other major producers are Belgium, Brazil and China.

What is the message from Micah? ›

Micah teaches his people that living justly, loving mercy, and following the Lord are more important than sacrifices and offerings. Micah testifies that Jehovah is compassionate and forgives the sins of those who repent.

What is a short name for Micah? ›

100 Nicknames for Micah: Micky. Mic. Mick.

What number is Micah in the Bible? ›

Book of Micah, the sixth of 12 Old Testament books that bear the names of the Minor Prophets, grouped together as The Twelve in the Jewish canon.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Horacio Brakus JD

Last Updated:

Views: 5778

Rating: 4 / 5 (51 voted)

Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Horacio Brakus JD

Birthday: 1999-08-21

Address: Apt. 524 43384 Minnie Prairie, South Edda, MA 62804

Phone: +5931039998219

Job: Sales Strategist

Hobby: Sculling, Kitesurfing, Orienteering, Painting, Computer programming, Creative writing, Scuba diving

Introduction: My name is Horacio Brakus JD, I am a lively, splendid, jolly, vivacious, vast, cheerful, agreeable person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.