Meaning & History. Probably of Phoenician origin, though it could be from Hebrew meaning exalted brother. This was the name of a king of Tyre in the Old Testament. As an English given name, Hiram came into use after the Protestant Reformation.In the 17th century the Puritans brought it to America, where it gained some currency.eaning & History. Probably of Phoenician origin, though it could be from Hebrew meaning exalted brother. This was the name of a king of Tyre in the Old Testament. As an English given name, Hiram came into use after the Protestant Reformation.