There are names that shout for attention, and then there are names that command respect with a quiet whisper. Simon belongs firmly in the latter category. It is the quintessential “thinking man’s” name, intellectual, gentle, and historically profound without feeling dusty. While it has Biblical roots deep enough to satisfy traditionalists, it possesses a sleek, two-syllable rhythm that fits perfectly in the modern classroom. It carries a vibe of kindness and curiosity, often associated with scholars, musicians, and saints.
Whether you love it for its spiritual significance or its soft, melodic sound, Simon is a choice that eschews trends in favor of timelessness. It manages to be widely recognized yet surprisingly underused, avoiding the “top 10” saturation of names like Noah or Liam. Verdict: Simon is an impeccable choice for a baby born in 2025, offering a sophisticated bridge between the vintage charm of the early 20th century and the minimalist style of today.
Simon Overview
- Meaning: Simon means “(he who) hears” or “listen.”
- Gender: Simon is traditionally a boy’s name.
- Origin: The Hebrew name Simon stems from the Hebrew root meaning “hear, listen.” Simon is also a Greek name meaning “flat-nosed, snub-nosed.”
- Pronunciation: In English, Simon is pronounced “SEYE-mun” or “SEYE-mn.”
- Popularity: Simon is extremely popular worldwide. It peaked at 198th on the U.S. popularity charts in 1910 and ranked 248th in 2023.
- Nicknames: Mon-mon, Shimmel, Si, Siem, Sime, Simmy, Simo, Si-Si, Sy, Sy-Sy.
- Variations: Shi’mon, Siemen, Simen, Simeon, Simone, Šimun, Symeon, Symon, Szymon.
- Namesakes: Simon Cowell, British TV personality. Simon Pegg, English actor-comedian.
What Does Simon Mean?
The primary and most cited meaning of Simon is “(he who) hears” or “God has heard.” This definition is rooted in the Hebrew verb shama, which implies active listening and obedience. It is a name that suggests empathy, attentiveness, and a connection to the divine.
However, onomatology (the study of names) requires we look at the whole picture. There is a homonym in Ancient Greek, Simōn, derived from the adjective simos, which translates to “flat-nosed” or “snub-nosed.” While this meaning is less poetic, it represents a distinct etymological path. In the New Testament era, the Hebrew name Shimon was frequently Hellenized (made Greek) into Simon because the two sounded similar, effectively merging the deep spiritual meaning with the common Greek name.
Where Does the Name Simon Come From?
Simon is a name with dual citizenship in history, bridging Hebrew and Greek cultures. Its deepest roots are Biblical. In the Old Testament, Shimon is the second son of Jacob and Leah. Leah named him Shimon because “the Lord has heard that I am hated,” reinforcing the definition of “hearing.”
The name exploded in popularity during the New Testament era. It was the birth name of the Apostle Peter (Simon Peter) and was arguably the most common Jewish male name in Roman Palestine during the first century. Because of Saint Peter’s significance as a leader of the early church, the name spread rapidly across Christendom, entering Old English and eventually becoming a staple throughout Europe.
How Popular is the Name Simon?
Simon is the definition of a “slow-burn” classic. Unlike names that rocket to the top and crash (like the “Kevin” of the 1960s or the “Jason” of the 1970s), Simon has maintained a remarkably steady presence for over a century.
According to Social Security Administration data, Simon has never been a Number 1 name in the US, which is actually a benefit for parents seeking distinctiveness. It hovered in the top 200s and 300s for decades. In the current era, it is a stable choice that feels familiar to everyone but is rarely duplicated in the same kindergarten class. It is a favorite among parents who enjoy “soft masculine” names, those that rely on gentle vowels and nasals rather than hard plosive sounds.
How Do I Pronounce Simon?
In American and British English, the standard pronunciation is SEYE-mun. The first syllable rhymes with “eye” or “sky,” and the second syllable is a soft, unstressed “mun.”
However, because Simon is a global powerhouse, you may encounter European variations. In French, it is pronounced see-MOHN (with a nasalized N). In German, it often sounds like ZEE-mon. All are valid, but “SEYE-mun” is the expectation in Anglophone countries.
Is Simon a Boy or Girl Name?
Simon is strictly a male name historically and in modern usage. While parents are increasingly borrowing names across gender lines, Simon has remained firmly masculine.
For parents who love the sound but are expecting a girl, the French feminine form Simone (pronounced see-MONE) is a chic, vintage option famously borne by philosopher Simone de Beauvoir and gymnast Simone Biles. Another option is Simona.
Variations of Simon
Because Simon traveled through the Bible to every corner of the globe, it has shifted shape to fit many languages. If you want to honor the name’s roots with a different twist, consider these variations:
- Simeon: The original Greek/Biblical form, widely used in Eastern Europe.
- Shimon: The original Hebrew form, still very common in Israel.
- Szymon: The Polish variation (pronounced SHIH-mon), which is incredibly popular in Poland.
- Ximeno: An old Spanish/Basque form that gave rise to the surname Jimenez.
- Simão: The Portuguese variation.
- Semen: The Ukrainian and Russian form.
Nicknames for Simon
Simon is a concise two-syllable name that doesn’t strictly require a nickname, but affectionate shortenings are always inevitable. Here are common and creative options:
- Si / Sy: The most intuitive standard nickname.
- Sim: A vintage short form that was popular in Victorian England.
- Simmy: A younger, playful option for a baby or toddler.
- Mony: A rare, creative option pulling from the second syllable.
- Simo: A common nickname in Finland and Serbia, but works as a fun pet name in English.
Names Similar to Simon
If Simon is on your shortlist but you want to explore names with a similar “intellectual vintage” vibe, consider these alternatives. They share Simon’s gentle strength and historical weight:
- Silas: Shares the soft “Si” beginning and Biblical roots; it feels slightly more rustic than Simon. Read more about Silas.
- Julian: Like Simon, this is a gentle, sophisticated classic that has never gone out of style.
- Felix: Shares the Latin/Classical feel and the happy, upbeat energy.
- Theodore: A vintage hit that matches Simon’s friendly, scholarly vibe.
- Arthur: Another “old man name” that has become incredibly chic for modern babies.
- Jude: Biblical, musical (Hey Jude), and short, just like Simon.
- Graham: A soft, sophisticated British-sounding name that sits well beside Simon.
- Matthew: If you like Simon for its New Testament connections, Matthew is a peer name that means “Gift of God.”
- Samuel: Shares the “S” start and the Hebrew origin; very compatible stylistically.
Middle Names for Simon
Simon is a “neutral” anchor name, meaning it pairs well with almost anything. However, to create a truly distinct name, balance is key. We have categorized these middle names to help you find the right flow.
Classic and Regal
These pairings lean into Simon’s history, creating a name that sounds distinguished on a resume.
Modern and Bold
Since Simon is soft and traditional, a middle name with grit or modern flair adds excellent contrast.
Biblical Flow
Pairing Simon with another Hebrew name reinforces its spiritual heritage.
Sibling Names for Simon
Building a sibset around Simon is delightful because it plays well with both Victorian vintage names and standard Biblical classics.
For a Brother
Brothers for Simon often have names that are established and gentle. Avoid aggressive, plosive names (like “Ryker” or “Jett”) if you want a cohesive style.
For a Sister
Sisters for Simon usually carry feminine, slightly vintage names that share the same timeless elegance.
Famous People Named Simon
Simon has been borne by revolutionaries, rock stars, and knights. Here are a few notable figures who share the name:
- Paul Simon: The legendary American musician, half of the duo Simon & Garfunkel.
- Simon Cowell: The famously critical judge of American Idol and The X Factor.
- Simon Pegg: Beloved British actor known for Shaun of the Dead and Star Trek.
- Simón Bolívar: The Venezuelan military leader who led what are currently the countries of Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Panama, and Bolivia to independence from the Spanish Empire.
- Simon Le Bon: Lead singer of the iconic 80s band Duran Duran.
- Simon Biles: While spelled Simone, the Olympic gymnastics G.O.A.T. is the most famous current feminine bearer of the name variant.
Simon in Pop Culture
Fiction loves the name Simon, often using it for characters who are intelligent, misunderstood, or heroic in a quiet way.
- Simon Basset: The dashing Duke of Hastings from the smash-hit series Bridgerton.
- Simon Seville: The smart, bespectacled chipmunk in Alvin and the Chipmunks.
- Simon Snow: The titular hero of Rainbow Rowell’s Carry On series.
- Simon Bellamy: A central character in the British sci-fi show Misfits.
- Simon Spier: The protagonist of the book Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and the movie Love, Simon.
FAQs About the Name Simon
Still curious about this classic name? Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What Is the Spiritual Meaning of the Name Simon?
The spiritual meaning of the name Simon may be related to faith, obedience, and attentiveness to the divine. In the Bible, Simon was the birthname of the Apostle Peter and means “who is heard, who hears/listens.” This implies one who listens and obeys divine instruction or could imply one whose petitions to God are heard by Him.
Does the Name Simon Mean Unstable?
Simon does not mean “unstable.” This misunderstanding appears to stem from the teachings of some Christian denominations. It likely takes inspiration from specific brash actions or words the Apostle Simon Peter was known to display in the Gospels before Christ’s resurrection.
What Does Simon Mean in Latin?
In Latin, Simon derives from the Hebrew-Greek Shi’mon/Simon, meaning “hearing, listening.” However, it may also stem from the unrelated Greek Simon, meaning “flat-nosed” or “snub-nosed.” The latter version of Simon originates with the root “simos.”
What Did Jesus Rename Simon?
Simon is known by several names throughout the scriptures. After becoming an apostle, Jesus gave Simon the name Cephas (Peter). As Peter means “rock,” this new moniker was likely prophetic, as Jesus could discern the “secret person of the heart.” In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said to Peter: “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Is Simon Considered an Old-Fashioned Name?
Simon is considered a “timeless classic” rather than strictly old-fashioned. While it was popular in the Victorian era (giving it a vintage charm), it has never fallen out of use completely. Unlike names such as “Elmer” or “Walter,” which are only now making a comeback, Simon has remained in steady usage, making it feel contemporary yet established.
What Nursery Rhymes Feature the Name Simon?
The most famous nursery rhyme featuring this name is “Simple Simon,” a poem that dates back to 18th-century England. Additionally, the children’s game “Simon Says” has made the name a staple of childhood play for generations. While “Simple Simon” implies foolishness, the cultural association has largely faded, and modern parents rarely find it to be a teasing issue.
Are There Catholic Saints Named Simon?
Yes, there are several saints named Simon. The most prominent is Saint Simon the Zealot, one of the original twelve apostles. Another key figure is Saint Simon Stock, an English priest who is associated with the Brown Scapular. Because of these figures, Simon has long been a favored name in Catholic communities.
Can Simon Be Used as a Middle Name?
Absolutely. Simon makes an excellent middle name because of its rhythm. The emphasis is on the first syllable (SEYE-mun), which provides a soft landing for a stronger first name. It pairs exceptionally well with multi-syllable first names like Christopher Simon or Benjamin Simon.
Is the Name Simon Popular in the UK?
Yes, Simon has historically been very popular in the United Kingdom, particularly from the 1960s through the 1980s. While it has cooled off slightly in the UK in favor of nicknames-as-names (like Alfie or Archie), it remains a recognizable and distinguished British favorite, often viewed as more “posh” or intellectual.
