Absalom

The first name Absalom (Hebrew אַבְשָׁלוֹם avšālôm) has its origin in the Bible and can be translated into German as 'the father is healing' or 'the father is peace.' This is composed of the ancient Hebrew word āḇ or the modern Hebrew āv for 'father' (referring to God here) and šālōm for 'peace.'

What does the name Absalom mean?

Absalom, also known as Absalon or Abschalom, is a figurative character from the Old Testament. He was the third son of King David and attempted to overthrow his father, but was killed by Joab, David's nephew and commander, during the 'Absalom's Rebellion.' The first name Absalom is primarily found in Africa, but is overall rather rare. In Germany, it is hardly used, while the Scandinavian short form Axel is more well-known.

Where does the name Absalom come from?

The name Absalom is a masculine given name of ancient Hebrew origin and means 'the father is healing' or 'the father is peace.'

How do you pronounce Absalom?

Absalom is pronounced as a three-syllable, sonorous name: 'Ab-sa-lom' [ˈapsaˌloːm] or [ˈabzaˌloːm]. It begins with a strong consonant cluster that exudes strength. The gentle middle part leads to a long, sustained -lom at the end. This gives the name a solemn, historically resonant sound – dignified, deep, and meaningful.

When is the name day of Absalom?

The name day for Absalom is celebrated on March 21 (in memory of Absalon of Lund).

Popularity

In Germany, Absalom is considered a rare first name. In 2021, it ranked 5,195th on the list of the most common male baby names. In the last ten years, it has been given as a first name fewer than 10 times, placing it 8,008th in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 9,767th. To understand the global popularity and distribution of Absalom, here are the rankings from recent years in various countries.

Nicknames & pet names

Abi / Abs / Absa / Absi

Famous people

• Absalom (son of King David)
• John James Absalom Thomas (bishop)