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Origin and meaning of the name Talitha

What is the origin of the name Talitha?

The name Talitha is derived from the Aramaic language and means "little girl" or "small one". It appears in the New Testament of the Bible, where it is used to address a girl who was brought back to life by Jesus (see Matthew 9:18-26 and Mark 5:21-43). The name Talitha Cumi, meaning "little girl, I say to you, arise", is mentioned in these passages. This name has since been used as a given name in various languages and cultures.

Learn more about the origin of the name Talitha

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Talitha

The name Talitha is of Hebrew origin, derived from the Aramaic word "Talitha" which means "little girl" or "damsel". This name is most notably associated with the biblical story of Jairus' daughter, where Jesus says "Talitha cum", meaning "Little girl, get up!" (Mark 5:41). In this narrative, Jesus heals a young girl who was near death. Today, Talitha is used in various languages, including English, and it has been adopted by families as a name that symbolizes life, faith, and healing. The name has also become popular among those who value its historical significance.

Character traits associated with the name Talitha

Talitha is often characterized by her intelligence and curiosity, demonstrating a strong aptitude for learning and exploration. Her name, originating from Hebrew, suggests growth and development, which she embodies through her relentless pursuit of knowledge. Talitha possesses a keen eye for detail, making her an exceptional problem-solver in various fields. She is also known for her empathy and compassion, showing deep understanding and care for those around her. Furthermore, Talitha's resilience and determination are evident as she consistently overcomes challenges with grace and tenacity. These qualities make Talitha a well-rounded individual, admired by many for her intellect, kindness, and perseverance.

Popularity of the name Talitha

The name Talitha is relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, with modest levels of usage observed over recent years. While its origins are traced back to Hebrew and Aramaic, where it means "little girl," the name has not gained significant popularity among modern parents. In certain religious communities, particularly those with a connection to Judaism or Christianity, Talitha may be more prevalent due to its biblical associations (Mark 5:41). However, in mainstream Western societies, the name is seldom encountered and typically falls outside the top 1000 most popular names for girls. Nonetheless, it retains a unique charm and historical significance that makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a distinctive moniker for their child.

Famous people with the name Talitha

Talitha Getty (1940-1970), an English socialite and philanthropist, was the third wife of John Paul Getty III. Her life was portrayed in the movie "Vanishing Season." Talitha Barnadoa Fox (born 1968) is a British-American television producer, known for co-creating the popular reality series "The Real World" and "Top Chef." Talitha Cumi Brown (2007–2012), an American child who gained national attention when she was declared clinically dead but miraculously revived after 61 minutes in a coma, is another notable figure named Talitha. These individuals showcase the diverse and impactful roles that people named Talitha have played across different fields, from socialite to television producer to medical miracle.

Variations of the name Talitha

Talitha is a captivating name with diverse variants, originating from Hebrew and Aramaic. The name carries significant meaning, translating to "dew of heaven" or "gentle woman."

Variations of Talitha include Talitha Kumi (Aramaic for "Talitha, get up"), a biblical reference to the daughter of Jairus in the New Testament. This name is often used to express faith and hope. Another variation is Thala, which is a shorter form, preserving the original charm yet offering a modern touch.

Additionally, Talitah, Talithia, Talithe, Thalita, and Talitha are other spellings or pronunciations of Talitha found in different cultures and regions. These variations often reflect the local phonetic rules or cultural influences while retaining the essence of the original name.

Each variant of Talitha embodies a unique character and spirit, making it a versatile choice for newborn girls across the world.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

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