Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Jimena

Jimena is a variant of Ximena. Ximena is an old Spanish and Portuguese female equivalent to the Hebrew biblical name Simon (which means ‘hearkener, listener’). In modern times, the Spanish language has largely abandoned the “X” and replaced it with a “J” (which is how Ximena eventually developed into Jimena). But back in medieval times, Ximena was in full swing. In fact, this is the name of El Cid’s wife (she would have pronounced Ximena as shee-MEH-nah). El Cid was "The lord, master of military arts" in the 11th century Castilian Kingdom during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. He was instrumental in the fight against the Moors and eventually recaptured the Spanish coastal city of Valѐncia. After his death, his beautiful wife Ximena would rule the city for a few more years until it once again fell to the Muslims. The gorgeous Sophia Loren would play Ximena in a 1961 film simply titled “El Cid”. While Jimena has largely replaced Ximena as a more modern version of this name, Ximena seems to be experiencing a strong revival right now. Ximena is currently the 2nd most popular female name in all of Mexico. Jimena is currently ranked 42nd most popular in Spain (2010).

All About the Baby Name – Jimena

Personality

OF THE GIRL NAME JIMENA

The number Seven personality is deeply mystical and highly in tune with their spirituality. They operate on a different wavelength than the average joe. Spending time alone comes easily to Sevens, as it gives them time to contemplate philosophical, religious and spiritual ideas in an effort to find "real truth".  Sevens are wise, but often exude mystery as if they are tapped into something the rest of us don't understand. They love the outdoors and are fed by nature. Sevens are constantly seeking to understand human nature, our place in the universe, and the mystery of life in general. This makes them quite artistic and poetic, but they are also keen observers with high intellect - so they are equally scientific-minded. Sevens are charitable and care deeply about the human condition.

Popularity

OF THE GIRL NAME JIMENA

When it comes to Spanish female names in the United States, Mexico has more influence over our naming practices than Spain. That is why Ximena is more popular than Jimena. And actually we find the “X” version rather medieval and unique. Jimena first appeared on the female naming charts very recently in 2001. In less than 10 years, the name has climbed to light low-moderate levels of usage. It’s a pretty sounding name with a lot of Spanish panache and flair. What’s not to like about Jimena? It’s three-syllables, lyrical and poetic, passionate and pretty. We’d also be interested if the Ximena/Jimenas out there are bad listeners. Check out her root name Simon for more information on the Biblical Simons.

Quick Facts

ON JIMENA

GENDER:

Girl

ORIGIN:

Spanish

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

3

RANKING POPULARITY:

453

PRONUNCIATION:

hee-ME-nah

SIMPLE MEANING:

One who hears

Characteristics

OF JIMENA

Mystical

Wise

Eccentric

Intuitive

Imaginative

Philosophical

Solitary

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Jimena

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME JIMENA

We cannot find any significant literary characters by the name of Jimena

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME JIMENA

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Jimena


Popular Songs

ON JIMENA

We cannot find any popular or well-known songs with the name of Jimena


Famous People

NAMED JIMENA

Jimena (Mexican pop singer)
Ximena Navarrete (Miss Universe 2010)

Children of Famous People

NAMED JIMENA

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Jimena

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME JIMENA

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Jimena