Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Onesimos

      Origin

      Greek

      Meaning

      Profitable or Useful

      Variations

      Onesimus, Onesimo, Dionysios
      The first name Onesimos originates from the ancient Greek word ὀνήσιμος, which translates to profitable or useful. This etymology reflects a broader cultural appreciation for names that convey positive attributes or strengths, suggesting a deep-seated value placed on utility and benefit in interpersonal relationships and community roles.

      Historically, the name Onesimos is particularly noted in Christian texts. It is best known from the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Philemon, where Onesimus is a runaway slave who becomes a Christian under the guidance of the Apostle Paul. This narrative has made the name emblematic of redemption and transformation. Over time, the name has appeared in various historical texts and documents, indicating its significance in both religious and social contexts during the early Christian period.

      In contemporary settings, the name Onesimos is rare but still holds resonance, particularly within religious or academic circles that study early Christianity. Its usage is sporadic, often appearing as a first name among people with Greek heritage or among those who appreciate its historical and cultural significance. While it may not be widely common, the name maintains an aura of uniqueness, symbolizing values of worth and redemption that can appeal to modern sensibilities.

      Based on our records...

      Fields

      Fields

      This is the most common surname associated with Onesimos.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1868 is when there were the most people born with the first name Onesimos.

      Explore the origins of another name.