History buff reveals darker second meaning of name ‘Jade’ stemming from Middle Ages

A new revelation about the name ‘Jade’ has been brought to light by a history enthusiast, shedding light on a darker second meaning that dates back to the Middle Ages. The history expert, known as TikToker @historyoncrack, shared the surprising information that the name ‘Jade’ did not always refer to a precious stone as commonly believed. Instead, during the Middle Ages, ‘Jade’ was used as slang for a ‘lady of the night’ or a worn-out old horse. This alternate interpretation of the name has sparked discussion and reflection among those bearing the name.

In a video shared on TikTok, @historyoncrack highlighted how the term ‘Jade’ evolved over time to connote something entirely different from its modern association with a beautiful gemstone. By the Victorian era, ‘Jade’ had come to be associated with a ‘Lady of the night’, a term euphemistically used for a prostitute. This historical context stands in stark contrast to the contemporary definition of the name found on baby name websites, which typically describe ‘Jade’ as a British gender-neutral name meaning ‘precious stone’.

Following the revelation, individuals named Jade took to the comments section to express their mixed feelings about the newfound historical connection. Some felt slighted by the alternative meaning, while others embraced the uniqueness of their name. Despite the unexpected background, @historyoncrack’s exploration of the name’s history has sparked conversations online, prompting a deeper appreciation for the complexities of language and naming conventions.

In summary, the name ‘Jade’ holds a dual history that spans from its origins in the Middle Ages as a term with negative connotations to its modern representation as a symbol of beauty and elegance. This revelation serves as a reminder of the intricate layers of meaning embedded in names and the importance of understanding their historical contexts.