“A shortening of the name Tabitha, meaning 'gazelle'.”
English origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#741US 2023
1.5kBirths / yr
→Stable
1.1kAll-time births
📅 Since 195300.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Tab
TAB
/ˈtæb/ · stress on TAB · 1 syllable
“A shortening of the name Tabitha, meaning 'gazelle'.”
English origin · Boy name
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'..
Holding steady — currently #741 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1955–2023#741 · Top 0.55%
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2015
2021
2022
2023
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
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Tab
2023Rank #741
1,459
#3533
↘Falling
1955 - 202313 years
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.
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.
Sibling names that pair with Tab
For a sister
Tab & Kimberly♡
Tab & Mark♡
Tab & Jane♡
Tab & Andy♡
For a brother
Tab & James♡
Tab & Mark♡
Tab & Steven♡
Tab & Jane♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks