The name Meir is a male given name of Hebrew origin, pronounced as "mayr" (/meɪər/). Rooted in Jewish tradition, Meir means "one who shines" or "illuminates," reflecting a sense of brightness and enlightenment. This name carries historical and cultural significance, often associated with notable figures in Jewish history such as Rabbi Meir, a renowned sage from the Talmudic era. A common variation of this name is Meyer. In recent years, the popularity of Meir has seen a steady presence in the United States, with its highest recorded rank being 943rd in 2023. The enduring appeal of Meir lies in its deep cultural roots and timeless meaning, making it a meaningful choice for parents seeking a name rich in heritage and positive connotations.
Meir Kahane - Meir David HaKohen Kahane was an American-born Israeli Orthodox rabbi, writer, and politician known for founding the ultra-nationalist political party Kach and the Jewish Defense League, but was later convicted of acts of terrorism. |
Aluf Meir Dagan was an influential figure in the Israel Defense Forces and served as the Director of the Mossad. |
Meir Tamari (1927–2021) was a pioneering economist and author known for his contributions to the field of Jewish business ethics. |
Meir Bar-Ilan was an influential orthodox rabbi, author, and religious Zionist activist, known for his leadership in the Mizrachi movement and honored with the naming of Bar-Ilan University. |
Meir Yaakov Soloveichik is an American Orthodox rabbi and writer, with a notable lineage in the field of Modern Orthodoxy. |
Rabbi Meir Ashkenazi, a Chabad rabbi, held the position of chief Rabbi of Shanghai from 1926 to 1949. |
Meir Porush is an Israeli politician known for his service as a member of the Knesset for the Haredi Agudat Yisrael faction of United Torah Judaism and as the Deputy Minister of Education. |
Meir Cohen is an Israeli politician who served as the mayor of Dimona and is currently a member of the Knesset for Yesh Atid and Minister of Welfare and Social Services. |
Meir Shamgar served as the chief justice of the Israeli Supreme Court from 1983 to 1995. |
Meir Banai was a renowned Israeli musician, singer, and songwriter. |
Meir Ben-Shabbat is a former National Security Adviser and Chief of Staff for National Security in Israel, having previously served as the head of the Southern Region in the General Security Service. |
Meir Tapiro is a former Israeli professional basketball player, CEO of Ironi Nes Ziona, and a five-time Israeli Premier League Assists Leader. |
Meir Nitzan, an Israeli politician, served as the mayor of Rishon Lezion for five consecutive terms. |
Meir Yitzhak Halevi is an Israeli politician who has served as a member of the Knesset for the New Hope party and as deputy Minister of Education, and was previously the mayor of Eilat. |
Meir Mazuz is a prominent political leader and Sephardic Haredi rabbi in Israel. |