Choosing a name for your baby is a significant decision, laden with meaning and hopes for the future. Tabitha is a name that carries a certain charm and historical depth. This article explores the popularity of the name Tabitha, along with its origin, meaning, and alternative suggestions for parents considering this classic choice.
The Meaning of Tabitha
The name Tabitha originates from the Aramaic language. Its meaning is "gazelle," a creature known for its grace, beauty, and gentle nature. This association imbues the name with a sense of elegance and agility, suggesting a personality that is both graceful and quick-witted. In the New Testament, Tabitha is mentioned as a woman known for her good works and acts of charity, further adding to the name’s positive connotations.
Tabitha Name Popularity
How popular is the name Tabitha? Let’s delve into its historical usage based on data from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1958 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1959 | 2,126 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1960 | 2,308 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1961-1965 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1966 | 502 | 303 | 0.0194% |
| 1967 | 450 | 398 | 0.0262% |
| 1968 | 384 | 525 | 0.035% |
| 1969 | 294 | 915 | 0.0594% |
| 1970 | 279 | 1,016 | 0.0638% |
| 1971 | 291 | 929 | 0.0618% |
| 1972 | 298 | 790 | 0.058% |
| 1973 | 292 | 775 | 0.0598% |
| 1974 | 281 | 863 | 0.0664% |
| 1975 | 262 | 880 | 0.0685% |
| 1976 | 237 | 971 | 0.0753% |
| 1977 | 195 | 1,353 | 0.1004% |
| 1978 | 127 | 2,284 | 0.1699% |
| 1979 | 156 | 1,791 | 0.127% |
| 1980 | 156 | 1,770 | 0.1211% |
| 1981 | 148 | 1,892 | 0.1287% |
| 1982 | 152 | 1,928 | 0.129% |
| 1983 | 137 | 2,145 | 0.1454% |
| 1984 | 142 | 2,089 | 0.1404% |
| 1985 | 135 | 2,145 | 0.1413% |
| 1986 | 140 | 1,996 | 0.1322% |
| 1987 | 151 | 1,792 | 0.1174% |
| 1988 | 152 | 1,843 | 0.1183% |
| 1989 | 156 | 1,841 | 0.1141% |
| 1990 | 164 | 1,752 | 0.1057% |
| 1991 | 189 | 1,551 | 0.0952% |
| 1992 | 189 | 1,586 | 0.0994% |
| 1993 | 203 | 1,420 | 0.0911% |
| 1994 | 211 | 1,371 | 0.0893% |
| 1995 | 220 | 1,257 | 0.0834% |
| 1996 | 230 | 1,204 | 0.0804% |
| 1997 | 244 | 1,188 | 0.0803% |
| 1998 | 280 | 1,082 | 0.0723% |
| 1999 | 290 | 1,043 | 0.0696% |
| 2000 | 319 | 961 | 0.0629% |
| 2001 | 335 | 884 | 0.0587% |
| 2002 | 384 | 737 | 0.0492% |
| 2003 | 397 | 730 | 0.048% |
| 2004 | 436 | 658 | 0.0432% |
| 2005 | 481 | 596 | 0.039% |
| 2006 | 523 | 540 | 0.0345% |
| 2007 | 549 | 512 | 0.0325% |
| 2008 | 576 | 486 | 0.0314% |
| 2009 | 645 | 408 | 0.0273% |
| 2010 | 615 | 429 | 0.0298% |
| 2011 | 673 | 365 | 0.0256% |
| 2012 | 748 | 311 | 0.0218% |
| 2013 | 745 | 307 | 0.0216% |
| 2014 | 878 | 245 | 0.0168% |
| 2015 | 884 | 241 | 0.0166% |
| 2016 | 885 | 239 | 0.0166% |
| 2017 | 1,010 | 177 | 0.0127% |
| 2018 | 1,020 | 163 | 0.0119% |
| 2019 | 1,066 | 148 | 0.0109% |
| 2020 | 1,421 | 99 | 0.0078% |
| 2021 | 1,348 | 102 | 0.0083% |
| 2022 | 1,591 | 82 | 0.0062% |
| 2023 | 1,760 | 67 | 0.0052% |
As the table indicates, Tabitha’s popularity peaked in the late 1970s and early 1980s, reaching rank 127 in 1978. While it has declined in recent years, it remains a recognizable and well-loved name. The name experienced a surge in popularity in the 1970s possibly due to cultural influences and media portrayal.
Names Like Tabitha
If you’re drawn to Tabitha but want to explore similar options, consider these alternatives:
Diminutives of Tabitha:
- Tab: A short and sweet nickname.
- Tabby: A cute and playful variation.
Variants of Tabitha:
- Tabatha: A common alternative spelling.
- Tabbee, Tabbey, Tabbi, Tabbie, Tabbitha, Tabetha, Tabita, Tabotha, Tabytha: These offer slight variations in sound and spelling while retaining the essence of the original name.
Sibling Names:
Parents who choose the name Tabitha often select these names for their other children:
- Girls: Ilana
- Boys: Jeriah, Daniel, David, Obadiah, Jethro
Conclusion
Tabitha is a classic and meaningful name with a rich history. Its Aramaic origin and association with grace and charity make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that is both beautiful and timeless. While its popularity has fluctuated over the years, Tabitha remains a cherished name with a unique charm. Considering its meaning, historical usage, and available alternatives, Tabitha is a name worthy of consideration for your baby girl. The data from SSA.gov provides valuable insights into the trends and usage of the name Tabitha over the decades.