Beth Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: Beth /bɛθ/
Origin: Hebrew; English
Meaning: Hebrew: 'house of God'; English: diminutive of Elizabeth
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Beth is derived from the Hebrew name "Bat" (בַּת), meaning "daughter." It is often associated with the Hebrew word "beit" (בֵּית), meaning "house" or "home," which reflects a familial or domestic connotation. The name gained prominence in the English-speaking world through its use as a diminutive form of names such as Elizabeth, which itself comes from the Hebrew "Elisheva" (אֱלִישֶׁבַע), meaning "God is my oath." The transition into English occurred via the Greek "Elisabet" and the Latin "Elisabetha," eventually leading to the Old French form "Élisabeth" before being adopted into English as Elizabeth, with Beth emerging as a common short form during the Middle Ages.
Historically, the name Beth has been linked to several notable figures, including Saint Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, who is celebrated in Christian tradition. The name Elizabeth appears in various biblical texts, including the New Testament, where it is associated with themes of faith and divine promise.
The King James Bible, published in 1611, further solidified the name's presence in English literature and culture. Over the centuries, the name has been borne by numerous queens and influential women, enhancing its historical significance.
Culturally, Beth has come to symbolize warmth and nurturing, reflecting its roots in familial connections. It is often associated with domesticity and care, resonating with the traditional roles of women throughout history.
The name's simplicity and elegance have contributed to its lasting appeal, while its association with Elizabeth lends it a sense of regal dignity. The diminutive form Beth has been embraced in various cultural contexts, often evoking a sense of familiarity and affection.
Famous people named Beth
Beth Moore is an author and Bible teacher best known for her books and the Living Proof Live events.
Beth Orton is a singer-songwriter best known for her albums Trailer Park, Central Reservation, and Daybreaker.
Beth Behrs is an actress best known for her role in 2 Broke Girls, her work in the film Hello, My Name Is Doris, and her appearances in various television series.
Fictional characters named Beth
Beth March is a fictional character from the novel Little Women. She is the kind-hearted and gentle sister of the March family, known for her selflessness and love for music.
Beth Greene is a fictional character from the TV series The Walking Dead. She is a young woman who evolves from a timid girl into a strong survivor throughout the series.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Beth was first seen in the United States in 1884.
Beth has ranked as high as #126 nationally, which occurred in 1961, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan.
In the past 5 years the name Beth has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Beth (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| PA | 5 | |
| TX | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1884 | 6 |
| 1885 | 9 |
| 1886 | 17 |
| 1887 | 11 |
| 1888 | 8 |
| 1889 | 26 |
| 1890 | 15 |
| 1891 | 24 |
| 1892 | 18 |
| 1893 | 27 |
| 1894 | 24 |
| 1895 | 22 |
| 1896 | 29 |
| 1897 | 27 |
| 1898 | 22 |
| 1899 | 32 |
| 1900 | 29 |
| 1901 | 23 |
| 1902 | 28 |
| 1903 | 32 |
| 1904 | 30 |
| 1905 | 22 |
| 1906 | 31 |
| 1907 | 36 |
| 1908 | 49 |
| 1909 | 54 |
| 1910 | 63 |
| 1911 | 57 |
| 1912 | 123 |
| 1913 | 129 |
| 1914 | 173 |
| 1915 | 209 |
| 1916 | 285 |
| 1917 | 298 |
| 1918 | 335 |
| 1919 | 355 |
| 1920 | 349 |
| 1921 | 356 |
| 1922 | 284 |
| 1923 | 287 |
| 1924 | 319 |
| 1925 | 315 |
| 1926 | 329 |
| 1927 | 310 |
| 1928 | 290 |
| 1929 | 262 |
| 1930 | 251 |
| 1931 | 238 |
| 1932 | 276 |
| 1933 | 256 |
| 1934 | 343 |
| 1935 | 343 |
| 1936 | 326 |
| 1937 | 371 |
| 1938 | 406 |
| 1939 | 501 |
| 1940 | 470 |
| 1941 | 601 |
| 1942 | 664 |
| 1943 | 785 |
| 1944 | 750 |
| 1945 | 806 |
| 1946 | 962 |
| 1947 | 1,179 |
| 1948 | 1,087 |
| 1949 | 1,357 |
| 1950 | 1,580 |
| 1951 | 1,980 |
| 1952 | 2,360 |
| 1953 | 2,564 |
| 1954 | 3,034 |
| 1955 | 3,272 |
| 1956 | 3,798 |
| 1957 | 4,351 |
| 1958 | 4,979 |
| 1959 | 6,068 |
| 1960 | 6,257 |
| 1961 | 6,716 |
| 1962 | 6,419 |
| 1963 | 6,676 |
| 1964 | 6,686 |
| 1965 | 5,774 |
| 1966 | 5,444 |
| 1967 | 5,184 |
| 1968 | 4,767 |
| 1969 | 4,460 |
| 1970 | 4,247 |
| 1971 | 3,686 |
| 1972 | 2,817 |
| 1973 | 2,563 |
| 1974 | 2,523 |
| 1975 | 2,324 |
| 1976 | 2,306 |
| 1977 | 2,968 |
| 1978 | 2,740 |
| 1979 | 2,688 |
| 1980 | 2,848 |
| 1981 | 2,310 |
| 1982 | 2,003 |
| 1983 | 1,635 |
| 1984 | 1,632 |
| 1985 | 1,341 |
| 1986 | 1,135 |
| 1987 | 930 |
| 1988 | 862 |
| 1989 | 677 |
| 1990 | 663 |
| 1991 | 544 |
| 1992 | 462 |
| 1993 | 346 |
| 1994 | 315 |
| 1995 | 282 |
| 1996 | 239 |
| 1997 | 238 |
| 1998 | 193 |
| 1999 | 175 |
| 2000 | 161 |
| 2001 | 156 |
| 2002 | 107 |
| 2003 | 103 |
| 2004 | 103 |
| 2005 | 57 |
| 2006 | 85 |
| 2007 | 61 |
| 2008 | 69 |
| 2009 | 40 |
| 2010 | 36 |
| 2011 | 49 |
| 2012 | 47 |
| 2013 | 35 |
| 2014 | 45 |
| 2015 | 44 |
| 2016 | 39 |
| 2017 | 38 |
| 2018 | 46 |
| 2019 | 33 |
| 2020 | 43 |
| 2021 | 52 |
| 2022 | 40 |
| 2023 | 31 |
| 2024 | 53 |