JED

Jed is a masculine given name that is commonly a shortened form of Jedediah, though it is used as an independent given name as well. It occurs predominantly in English-speaking countries and has been used in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The name is associated with a straightforward, compact sound and mainstream familiarity.

Origin and meaning: Jedediah derives from Hebrew Yedidyahu, meaning "beloved of Yahweh" or "friend of God." The shortened form Jed retains the sense of the original while functioning as a simple, punchy name in its own right.

Usage: As a given name, Jed is used for real people and fictional characters. It is frequently chosen for its rugged simplicity or old-fashioned charm. The name has appeared in literature, television, and film, often to convey a sturdy, approachable character.

Notable bearers: Jedediah Smith (1799–1831), American explorer; Jed Clampett, fictional patriarch of the television series The Beverly Hillbillies; Jed Hoyer (born 1973), American baseball executive; Jedediah Bila (born 1979), American author, journalist, and television host.

See also: Jedediah as the fuller form of the name; related names and diminutives.