📅 Since 1880🏆 30 years in top 1002.68% of births at peak
How to pronounce Deborah
DEB·er·uh
/ˈdɛb.ɝ.ə/ · stress on DEB · 2 syllables
“bee”
Hebrew origin · Girl name
What does Deborah mean and where does it come from?
The name Deborah (דְבוֹרָה) is of Hebrew origin and is mentioned in the Old Testament as a prophetess and a judge of Israel. It has been used since ancient times and reflects qualities such as industriousness and bravery. The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the Puritan er
Cultural significance
Deborah has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bee.
Holding steady — currently #882 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#882 · Top 0.65%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#882
1,318
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#887
1,298
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021
#892
1,268
▲ up 14 · +343% births
2020
#906
286
▼ down 101 · -18% births
2015
#805
348
▼ down 31 · -2% births
2010
#774
354
▼ down 122 · -17% births
2005
#652
425
▼ down 158 · -22% births
2000
#494
546
▼ down 96 · -17% births
1995
#398
659
▼ down 136 · -40% births
1990
#262
1,094
▼ down 70 · -22% births
1985
#192
1,400
▼ down 46 · -28% births
1980
#146
1,937
▼ down 60 · -43% births
1975
#86
3,413
▼ down 53 · -65% births
1970
#33
9,848
▼ down 20 · -42% births
1965
#13
17,083
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Deborah
1955Rank #2
52,315
#478
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Deborah
Deborah has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #2 in 1955, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 743K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Once ranked #499 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #882 in 2023. Deborah is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Deborah means "bee" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Deborah?
Deborah is currently ranked #882 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 Deborah?
Deborah originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Deborah?
Deborah is a two-syllable name pronounced D EH1 B ER0 AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Deborah a common or rare name?
Deborah is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
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