“A diminutive form of Elizabeth, meaning 'God is my oath'” — Associated with royalty and biblical figures
France origin · Unisex name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#1078US 2023
1.1kBirths / yr
→Stable
34.9kAll-time births
📅 Since 189600.14% of births at peak
How to pronounce Bette
bet
/bet/ · · 2 syllables
“A diminutive form of Elizabeth, meaning 'God is my oath'”
Associated with royalty and biblical figures · France origin
What does Bette mean and where does it come from?
Bette is a diminutive of the name Elizabeth, stemming from the Hebrew name Elisheba (אלישבע). This name has a long history, commonly associated with royalty and biblical figures. Bette gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in France and the United States. Notable figures include
Cultural significance
Bette has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a diminutive form of elizabeth, meaning 'god is my oath'.
Holding steady — currently #1078 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1900–2023#1078 · Top 0.80%
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1078
1,122
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1083
1,102
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1088
1,072
▲ up 11016 · +15214% births
2020
#12104
7
▼ down 1209 · -22% births
2015
#10895
9
▲ up 4130 · +50% births
2010
#15025
6
▼ down 3547
1990
#11478
6
▼ down 5761 · -50% births
1985
#5717
12
▼ down 1362 · -29% births
1980
#4355
17
▲ up 540 · +42% births
1975
#4895
12
▼ down 2529 · -62% births
1970
#2366
32
▼ down 1122 · -57% births
1965
#1244
75
▼ down 385 · -48% births
1960
#859
145
▼ down 358 · -57% births
1955
#501
339
▼ down 124 · -26% births
1950
#377
459
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Bette
1925Rank #155
1,592
#3239
↘Falling
1900 - 202324 years
The story of Bette
Bette has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. A total of 34,868 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1864 in 1900 to #1078 in 2023. Bette is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Bette means "A diminutive form of Elizabeth, meaning 'God is my oath'" — a name rooted in France tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Bette?
Bette is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Bette?
Bette originates from France tradition. France names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Bette a common or rare name?
Bette is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Bette more of a girl or boy name?
Bette is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Bette
For a sister
Bette & Josephine♡
Bette & Vivian♡
Bette & Calvin♡
Bette & Rosalie♡
For a brother
Bette & Josephine♡
Bette & Calvin♡
Bette & Rosalie♡
Bette & Nicolas♡
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