מֵאִיר

Meir

boyHebrewJewish

Meir is a Jewish boy name of Hebrew origin, meaning “One who gives light”.

MeaningOne who gives light
GenderBoy
OriginHebrew
Written asמֵאִיר
Pronunciationmay-EER
TraditionJewish
Used inIsrael, United States

Meaning and origin of Meir

Meir comes from the Hebrew root for light, and means 'shining' or 'one who illuminates'. It is not found as a personal name in the Bible but became important through Rabbi Meir, a second-century sage of the Mishnah. Other well-known bearers include the medieval scholar Rabbi Meir of Rothenburg. Golda Meir, Israel's fourth prime minister, adopted it as her Hebrew surname.

Is Meir a Jewish name?

Meir is a traditional Jewish name honouring Rabbi Meir, one of the most quoted sages in the Mishnah, sometimes called Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes, 'the miracle worker'.

How popular is Meir?

Common among Orthodox and traditional Jewish families and in Israel.

Gifts with the name Meir

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Spellings and variants of Meir

MeyerMayerMeierMyer

Names similar to Meir

More Jewish boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Meir mean?

Meir means 'One who gives light'. It is of Hebrew origin.

Is Meir a Jewish name?

Meir is a traditional Jewish name honouring Rabbi Meir, one of the most quoted sages in the Mishnah, sometimes called Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes, 'the miracle worker'.

How do you pronounce Meir?

Meir is pronounced may-EER.

Is Meir a boy or girl name?

Meir is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.