Simone is the Italian form of Simon 1. Etymology and MeaningThe name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Shimʿon, meaning "hearing, listening," from the root shamaʿ ("to hear"). In the Old Testament, it is borne by Simeon, the second son of Jacob. The Greek New Testament form Simon (from Hebrew Shimʿon) may have been influenced by the unrelated Greek name Simon 2.Biblical SignificanceSimon is a prominent name in the New Testament, most famously held by Simon Peter, the leading apostle renamed by Jesus. Other bearers include Simon the Zealot and Simon of Cyrene, who carried Jesus' cross. Because of the apostle Peter, the name spread widely across Christendom.Italian UsageIn Italy, Simone became the standard masculine form, used throughout the Middle Ages and into modern times. Its feminine equivalents are Simona and Simonetta.Related FormsCognates include Simeon (Serbian), Symeon (Biblical Latin), Ximun (Basque), and Siamion (Belarusian).Meaning: "hearing, listening"Origin: Hebrew via Greek New TestamentType: given nameUsage regions: Italy