What does Tab mean and where does it come from?
The name Tab is often used as a diminutive form of Tabitha, which is of Aramaic origin. The name Tabitha appears in the New Testament as the name of a woman restored to life by Apostle Peter. 'Tab' can also be a surname in some cultures and has been used as a nickname in various contexts. It's not e
Cultural significance
Tab has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a shortening of the name tabitha, meaning 'gazelle'..
Peak popularity
Reached #697 in 1957 — currently #741 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Tab?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Tab?
Tab works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tab Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tab Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tab Claire
French influence · crisp
Tab Jane
Literary · strong
Tab Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tab right now?
Holding steady — currently #741 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #741 | 1,459 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #746 | 1,439 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #751 | 1,409 | ▲ up 11593 · +28080% births |
| 2015 | #12344 | 5 | ▼ down 5138 · -29% births |
| 1995 | #7206 | 7 | ▼ down 1188 · -12% births |
| 1990 | #6018 | 8 | ▲ up 11 · +33% births |
| 1985 | #6029 | 6 | ▼ down 2505 · -50% births |
| 1980 | #3524 | 12 | ▲ up 288 · +33% births |
| 1975 | #3812 | 9 | ▼ down 2234 · -70% births |
| 1970 | #1578 | 30 | ▼ down 483 · -36% births |
| 1965 | #1095 | 47 | ▼ down 169 · -30% births |
| 1960 | #926 | 67 | ▲ up 227 · +56% births |
| 1955 | #1153 | 43 | — |
The story of Tab
Tab entered American naming records in 1953 and has been in use for over 71 years. With 1,111 total births recorded, Tab remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1153 in 1955 to #741 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Tab in 1957:
Tab by decade
Tab peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 420 | |
| 1960s ★ | 426 | |
| 1970s | 126 | |
| 1980s | 86 | |
| 1990s | 41 | |
| 2010s | 12 | |
💎With 1,111 total births, Tab is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Tab?
What names sound and feel like Tab?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tab also consider these
Common questions about the name Tab
What does the name Tab mean?
Tab means "A shortening of the name Tabitha, meaning 'gazelle'." — 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 Tab?
Tab is currently ranked #741 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Tab?
Tab 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 Tab?
Tab is a one-syllable name pronounced T AE1 B. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Tab sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Tab flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Tab ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.