Last Name Jemima

The last name "Jemima" is of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew name "Yemima," meaning "dove." It is a feminine given name, used in the Bible as the name of the eldest daughter of Job. Over time, it has also been used as a surname.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Jemima

The meaning and origin of the last name Jemima

The surname Jemima is of Hebrew origin, derived from the feminine given name Jemima, which means "dove" in Hebrew. The name Jemima has biblical roots, as it is mentioned in the Book of Job as one of the daughters of Job. The dove has various symbolic meanings in different cultures, including peace, innocence, and purity. Over time, the name Jemima has been used as a surname, likely as a way to honor an ancestor or highlight their connection to the biblical figure. Today, the surname Jemima is relatively rare and is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States. It is a unique and meaningful surname that carries a sense of peace and grace.

Geographical distribution of the last name Jemima

The last name Jemima is relatively uncommon and has a limited geographical distribution. It is most prevalent in Nigeria, particularly among the Yoruba ethnic group. The name may also be found in other parts of West Africa, as well as in some Caribbean countries and in the United States. Despite its rarity, the name has cultural significance and is often passed down through generations within certain communities. The name Jemima is believed to have biblical origins, referencing a character in the Old Testament. As a result, those who bear this last name may have strong ties to their religious and cultural heritage. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Jemima is somewhat concentrated in specific regions, reflecting the history and migration patterns of the individuals and families who carry this surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Jemima

The variations and spellings of the last name Jemima include Jemmima, Jemimah, and Gemma. These alternate spellings may be due to differences in pronunciation or regional dialects. The name Jemima is of Hebrew origin, meaning "dove" or "beautiful." It is a relatively uncommon surname, often associated with individuals of English or Jewish descent. The name Jemima has a classic and elegant sound, making it an appealing choice for families looking for a traditional and timeless last name. Despite its unique spelling, the name Jemima has a sense of grace and sophistication that adds a touch of refinement to any individual or family who bears it.

Famous people with the last name Jemima

There are no famous people with the last name Jemima that are widely recognized in popular culture. The name "Jemima" is not a common surname and is more commonly associated with the fictional character Aunt Jemima. Aunt Jemima was a brand of pancake mix and syrup that featured a stereotypical image of a black woman as its spokesperson. In recent years, the brand faced criticism for its racist origins and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes. As a result, the brand has been officially renamed and rebranded to distance itself from its controversial past. Despite the negative connotations associated with the name Jemima, there may be individuals with this last name who have made significant contributions in various fields but have not gained widespread recognition.

Genealogical research on the last name Jemima

The last name Jemima does not have a clear genealogical origin as it is a relatively rare surname. It is believed to be of English or African descent, with some sources suggesting it may have origins in the Hebrew language meaning "dove" or "peaceful." The name Jemima is also used in the Bible, where one of Job's daughters is named Jemima. In terms of genealogical research, individuals with the last name Jemima may be able to trace their lineage through records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, census data, and immigration records. Additionally, DNA testing can provide more insights into the genetic background of individuals with the Jemima surname, helping to uncover potential connections to specific regions or ethnic groups. Further research and collaboration with other individuals bearing the Jemima surname may also prove valuable in tracing the family history of this unique last name.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "jemima"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 : 11 April 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends