What's in a Name

Noah is "a boy's name that has been used since Biblical times to refer to the man who not only invented wine, but built an ark for refuge of animals to get out of the rain that lasted 40 days and 40 nights. After the Flood he received the sign of the rainbow as a covenant from God.

The name has a Hebrew origin and although its original meaning is "peaceful", other meanings include "long-lived", "restful", "comforter", or "wanderer". Used since the 17th century, Noah has experienced an increase in popularity since 1990. It has remained one of the top names for baby boys since 1996. In 2006, it was the 15th most popular name for boys and the 20th most popular overall name. Noah is also ranked 15th on the Social Security Administration ranking for babies born in the past year. It is primarily used in English and Hebrew speaking countries.

NAMESAKES
Actor Noah Wyle, born on June 4, 1971; is an actor best known for his role as Dr. John Carter on NBC's hit television show "ER".

Noah Beery Jr. was an actor born on August 10, 1913 who had a lead role on the 1970s TV series "The Rockford Files".

Noah Deitrich, born February 28, 1889 was the CEO of the Howard Hughes Empire.

Noah Webster, born October 16, 1759, was a lexicographer who wrote an English dictionary that led the way for the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

Noah Baumbach, a film director born on September 3, 1969. He has directed several movies, including the 1995 movie "Kicking and Screaming" and the 2000 drama "Highball".

OTHER FACTS
Songs with the name Noah include "Noah" by Harry Belafonte and two songs from the soundtrack of the popular romantic movie "The Notebook": Noah's Journey and Noah's Last Letter.

The Einstein Noah Restaurant Group operates nine Noah's Bagel restaurants in the Oregon area.
"The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn" was a 1999 made for TV movie about a farmer who fought real estate developers to keep his land. The movie was directed by Gregg Champion and its stars included Mary-Louise Parker."