The name Gideon originates from the Hebrew verb גדע (gada'), meaning "to hew down" or "to cut off. " It is associated with the biblical judge and leader Gideon, who led the Israelites to victory over the Midianites. The name gained popularity among English Puritans and French Huguenots due to its biblical significance. It was first used as a given name in the 16th century and has since fluctuated in popularity, with a resurgence in recent years.
