“Bobby has historically been a diminutive of Robert, which was originally more common as a male name”
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#1191US 2023
169Births / yr
↓Falling
323.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 190000.03% of births at peak
How to pronounce Bobby
BAH·bee
/ˈbɑ.biː/ · stress on BAH · 2 syllables
“Bobby has historically been a diminutive of Robert, which was originally more common as a male name”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Bobby mean and where does it come from?
Bobby has historically been a diminutive of Robert, which was originally more common as a male name. However, in recent years, it has been embraced as a standalone name for females. It gained popularity in English-speaking countries and is sometimes used affectionately.
Cultural significance
Bobby has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Falling — down 158 spots — currently #1191 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1900–2023#1191 · Top 0.88%
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2010
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1191
169
▼ down 158 · -21% births
2022
#1033
214
▼ down 10
2021
#1023
215
▲ up 16046 · +4200% births
2010
#17069
5
▼ down 9003 · -58% births
2000
#8066
12
▼ down 3197 · -40% births
1995
#4869
20
▼ down 1231 · -31% births
1990
#3638
29
▼ down 1533 · -42% births
1985
#2105
50
▼ down 886 · -54% births
1980
#1219
108
▼ down 98 · +4% births
1975
#1121
104
▼ down 223 · -29% births
1970
#898
147
▲ up 239 · +69% births
1965
#1137
87
▼ down 72 · -15% births
1960
#1065
102
▼ down 151 · -12% births
1955
#914
116
▼ down 151 · -10% births
1950
#763
129
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Bobby
1930Rank #405
262
#2280
↘Falling
1900 - 202324 years
The story of Bobby
Bobby has been a beloved American name for over 124 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1900. More than 323,649 babies have been named Bobby since 1900. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2153 in 1900 to #1191 in 2023. Bobby is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.
Bobby means "English" — a name rooted in American 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 Bobby?
Bobby is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Bobby?
Bobby originates from American tradition. American 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 Bobby?
Bobby is a two-syllable name pronounced B AA1 B IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Bobby a common or rare name?
Bobby is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Bobby
For a sister
Bobby & Harrison♡
Bobby & Dean♡
Bobby & Grant♡
Bobby & King♡
For a brother
Bobby & Harrison♡
Bobby & Dean♡
Bobby & Grant♡
Bobby & King♡
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