Simão

Simão is a Portuguese given name derived from the Hebrew name Shim’on, the equivalent of Simon in English. It is widely used in Portugal, Brazil, and other Portuguese-speaking countries, as well as among Lusophone communities worldwide.

Etymology and meaning: Shim’on in Hebrew is commonly interpreted as meaning “he has heard” or “God has heard.” The name has biblical origins, appearing in the New Testament and other ancient sources. In Portuguese, Simão is the standard form, with variants such as Simao used in international or non-accented contexts.

Usage and cultural context: Simão is a traditional given name in religious and secular contexts alike. It is commonly found among Portuguese-speaking populations and appears in historical and modern records. The name can be combined with surnames or used in diminutive forms, such as Simãozinho, in affectionate or familial settings. Anglicized or non-accented spellings often render the name as Simao.

Notable people: One of the best-known bearers of the name is Simão Sabrosa, a Portuguese footballer who had a prominent career with clubs in Portugal and abroad. The name is also encountered in various Portuguese-speaking countries among individuals in diverse fields.

See also: Simon (given name), for the English and broader Western equivalents, and Simão as the Lusophone form of the name.