Jason Name Meaning

Close up smiling face of an African American boy

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The name Jason is a typically masculine name that is believed to have Greek and Hebrew origins. Jason is a classic and traditional Greek name. In Greek, the name means “healer.” This is from the Greek word “iaomai” which means “to heal.” The origin of the name can also be traced to Greek mythology.

The story goes that Jason, a great Thessalian hero, led the Argonauts, a band of heroes in Greek mythology, on a quest for the Golden Fleece, in order to get back the throne from his Uncle Pelias, who overthrew Jason’s father as the king of Ilocos. Jason also married Medea, a sorceress who helped him get the Golden Fleece and murder his uncle. 

In Hebrew, Jason means “the Lord is salvation.” In the bible story, Jason housed Paul and Silas when they were in need of shelter. In English, Jaye is a feminine variation to the name Jason.

  • Origin: Jason is thought to have both Greek and Hebrew origins. 
  • Gender: Jason is typically a masculine name, but can be used for any gender. A more feminine variation to consider is Jaye.
  • Pronunciation: Jay-sun

Although many baby names are separated by gender, Verywell Family believes that sex does not need to play a role in your name selection process. It’s important to select a name that you feel suits your new baby the best.

How Popular Is the Name Jason? 

Jason has been a consistently popular name in the United States for several decades. Between the years 1973 and 1982, the name stayed consistently in the top five most popular names for boys. After that, it stayed in the top 50 most popular names, only getting kicked off that list in 2004.

Jason's popularity is thought to have made names like Jacob, Jackson, and Mason also gain some popularity. In recent years, it has slipped from the top 100 lists. According to 2020 data from the Social Security Administration, it’s the 119th most popular name for boys in the United States.

Name Variations 

Jason has some spelling and pronunciation variations you might want to consider if you are looking for a fresh spin on the traditional name. Here’s a list of some of them: 

  • Iason (Greek, Latin)
  • Jase (English)
  • Jayce (English) 
  • Jaye (English)
  • Jayceon (English)
  • Jacyn 
  • Jayson (English)

Similar Names

If you like the name Jason, here are some names with a similar sound and feel to consider for your baby: 

  • Alexander 
  • Charlotte 
  • Ethan
  • Jackson 
  • Jacob 
  • Jamie 
  • Jasmine 
  • Jeanne 
  • Jemima 
  • Jenna
  • Jessica
  • Jimmy 
  • Joanna 
  • Joanne
  • Mason
  • Matthew

Famous People Named Jason  

Jason is a name that has historically been given to brave and courageous people. If you are thinking of naming your baby Jason, here’s a list of other famous people with the same name:

  • Jason Bateman, American actor, and producer 
  • Jason Connery, British actor and producer and the son of the legendary Sean Connery 
  • Jason Demers, Canadian ice hockey player 
  • Jason Derulo, American singer, songwriter, and dancer 
  • Jason Kidd, American basketball coach and former basketball player 
  • Jason Momoa, American actor, popular for his role as Aquaman in the Marvel movies 
  • Jason Mraz, American singer, and songwriter 
  • Jason Newsted, American musician, bass player, and member of the rock band Metallica 
  • Jason Phillips (Jadakiss), American rapper
  • Jason Robards, American actor 
  • Jason Segel, American actor and comedian most popular for his role as Marshall in the television show “How I Met Your Mother”
  • Jason Wade, American musician and member of the rock band "Lifehouse" 

More Baby Names

Still searching for the perfect baby name? Check out these related baby name lists for even more options: 

1 Source
Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Social Security Administration. Popular Names in 2020.

By Toketemu Ohwovoriole
Toketemu has been multimedia storyteller for the last four years. Her expertise focuses primarily on mental wellness and women’s health topics.