The name Noemi is derived from the Hebrew name "Naomi," which means "pleasant" or "delightful." It has its origins in the Old Testament of the Bible, where Naomi was the mother-in-law of Ruth, a central figure in the Book of Ruth. The name is believed to have been popularized during the 6th century BCE, when the Book of Ruth was written.

In the Bible, Naomi's story is one of tragedy, resilience, and redemption. After losing her husband and two sons, she returns to Bethlehem with her Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth. Through Ruth's loyalty and determination, Naomi's life is restored, and she becomes a symbol of hope and renewal.

The name Noemi has been used throughout history in various cultures and languages. In ancient Greece, it was spelled as "Noēmē," which means "intelligence" or "understanding." In Latin, it became "Noemia," and in Italian, it is often spelled as "Noemi."

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name comes from the 1st century CE, when a Roman woman named Noemia was mentioned in an inscription found in Pompeii. During the Middle Ages, the name was popular among Christians, particularly in Italy and Spain, where it was associated with the biblical Naomi.

Some notable historical figures with the name Noemi include:

1. Noemi Simonetti di Latina (c. 1300 - c. 1367), an Italian nun and mystic who founded the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Monte Calvario.

2. Noemi Marescalchi (1550 - 1624), an Italian poet and writer from Bologna, known for her work "Rime e Prose" (Rhymes and Prose).

3. Noemi Bassani (1901 - 1965), an Italian writer and translator who was part of the Neorealist literary movement in Italy.

4. Noemi Kumalae (1944 - present), a Samoan writer and academic, known for her contributions to Pacific literature and cultural studies.

5. Noemi Ban (1976 - present), a Hungarian singer and songwriter who has released several albums and won numerous awards in her home country.

The name Noemi has endured through the centuries, transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries, and continues to be popular in various parts of the world today, carrying with it the biblical connotations of grace, perseverance, and resilience.