📅 Since 1880🏆 61 years in top 1003.13% of births at peak
How to pronounce Betty
BET·ee
/ˈbɛt.iː/ · stress on BET · 2 syllables
“God's promise”
English origin · Girl name
What does Betty mean and where does it come from?
Betty is often considered a diminutive of Elizabeth, which has Hebrew origins (אֵלִישֶׁבַע - Elisheva) meaning 'God is my oath' or 'God's promise'. The name was popularized in the 20th century and has been famously used in various media, including the character Betty Draper in 'Mad Men'. Variants of
Cultural significance
Betty has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god's promise.
Declining — down 27 spots — currently #1184 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1184 · Top 0.87%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1184
202
▼ down 27 · -4% births
2022
#1157
210
▲ up 32 · +2% births
2021
#1189
205
▼ down 9 · +6% births
2020
#1180
194
▲ up 91 · +2% births
2015
#1271
191
▲ up 335 · +43% births
2010
#1606
134
▼ down 69 · +1% births
2005
#1537
133
▼ down 386 · -24% births
2000
#1151
175
▼ down 320 · -26% births
1995
#831
235
▼ down 259 · -42% births
1990
#572
406
▼ down 135 · -19% births
1985
#437
502
▼ down 78 · -24% births
1980
#359
658
▼ down 122 · -36% births
1975
#237
1,022
▼ down 68 · -48% births
1970
#169
1,966
▼ down 66 · -45% births
1965
#103
3,565
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Betty
1930Rank #2
38,234
#481
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Betty
Betty has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #2 in 1928, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 1004K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Once ranked #136 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1184 in 2023. Betty is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Betty means "God's promise" — a name rooted in English 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 Betty?
Betty is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Betty have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Betty?
Betty originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Betty?
Betty is a two-syllable name pronounced B EH1 T IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Betty trending right now?
Betty is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Betty
For a sister
Betty & Ruby♡
Betty & Emmett♡
Betty & June♡
Betty & Jane♡
For a brother
Betty & James♡
Betty & Jack♡
Betty & Emmett♡
Betty & June♡
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