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Bobby Unisex

Popularity: #736 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationBAH-bee / /ˈbɒbi/

English; diminutive of Robert

Meaning

Bright fame; shining fame

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Bobby is derived from the name Robert, which has its roots in the Old High German name Hrodebert, composed of the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright' or 'shining.' This name was introduced to England by the Normans in the 11th century, evolving through various forms such as Robertus in Latin and Robert in Old French before becoming Robert in Middle English. The diminutive form Bobby emerged as a familiar and affectionate variant of Robert, particularly in English-speaking cultures, during the 19th century.

Historically, the name Robert has significant milestones, including its association with several notable figures. One of the earliest recorded bearers was Robert the Bruce, the King of Scots in the early 14th century, who played a crucial role in Scotland's struggle for independence. The name also appears in various forms in literature and religious texts, including the King James Bible, which was published in 1611, where Robert was a common name among biblical translations. Saints named Robert, such as Saint Robert of Molesme, who founded the Cistercian order in the 11th century, further contributed to the name's prominence in Christian contexts.

Culturally, the name Bobby has resonated through various traditions and has been associated with qualities such as bravery and leadership, reflecting its etymological roots. The name has been used in various literary works and popular culture, often symbolizing a friendly or approachable character. The affectionate diminutive Bobby has been embraced in many contexts, reinforcing the name's enduring appeal across generations. Overall, Bobby, as a derivative of Robert, encapsulates a rich historical and cultural significance that has persisted through the centuries.

Trend Summary

Bobby has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Bob
  • Robbie

International Variants

  • Roberto (Italian)
  • Róbert (Hungarian)
  • Bobby (Dutch)

Famous people named Bobby

Bobby Fischer is a chess grandmaster best known for winning the World Chess Championship in 1972.

Bobby Flay is a chef and restaurateur best known for his appearances on Food Network and his restaurants like Mesa Grill.

Bobby Brown is a singer and songwriter best known for his work with New Edition and his solo hits like "My Prerogative.".

Bobby Cannavale is an actor best known for his roles in Boardwalk Empire, Vinyl, and Ant-Man.

Bobby McFerrin is a vocalist and conductor best known for his song "Don't Worry, Be Happy.".

Bobby Rydell is a singer and actor best known for his hits in the 1960s like "Wild One" and "Volare.".

Bobby Labonte is a retired NASCAR driver best known for winning the NASCAR Cup Series Championship in 2000.

Bobby Vinton is a singer and songwriter best known for his hits like "Blue Velvet" and "My Melody of Love.".

Bobby Darin is a singer and actor best known for his songs "Mack the Knife" and "Beyond the Sea.".

Bobby Heenan is a professional wrestling manager and commentator best known for his work in WWE and WCW.

Bobby Bonilla is a former Major League Baseball player best known for his time with the Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Mets.

Fictional characters named Bobby

Bobby Singer is a fictional character from the TV series Supernatural. He is a seasoned hunter and father figure to the main protagonists, Sam and Dean Winchester.

Bobby Hill is a fictional character from the animated television series King of the Hill. He is the son of Hank and Peggy Hill, known for his quirky personality and interests that often contrast with those of his father.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Bobby was first seen in the United States in 1900. Bobby has ranked as high as #49 nationally, which occurred in 1937, and has been most popular in North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, and Alabama. In the past 5 years the name Bobby has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Bobby (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 34
24%
CA 21
15%
FL 11
8%
GA 11
8%
NC 9
6%
TN 8
6%
VA 7
5%
IN 6
4%
WA 6
4%
OH 6
4%
KY 5
4%
LA 5
4%
MS 5
4%
AL 5
4%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19007
19048
190511
19067
19075
19086
19099
19108
191112
191214
191314
191436
191542
191649
191762
191881
191993
1920170
1921274
1922370
1923470
1924733
19251,085
19261,595
19272,287
19282,971
19293,924
19305,182
19315,858
19326,597
19336,490
19347,530
19357,726
19367,735
19377,745
19387,497
19397,056
19406,882
19416,590
19426,249
19436,121
19445,411
19455,049
19465,771
19476,116
19485,581
19495,120
19505,018
19515,006
19524,960
19535,179
19545,508
19555,223
19565,358
19575,617
19585,737
19595,676
19605,652
19615,403
19625,323
19635,212
19645,083
19654,588
19664,067
19673,778
19683,629
19693,653
19703,636
19713,652
19723,172
19732,889
19742,792
19752,772
19762,644
19772,539
19782,398
19792,584
19802,724
19812,658
19822,605
19832,357
19842,119
19852,094
19862,105
19871,889
19881,715
19891,759
19901,677
19911,508
19921,387
19931,221
19941,136
19951,046
1996932
1997913
1998835
1999729
2000730
2001655
2002644
2003559
2004573
2005505
2006546
2007523
2008515
2009458
2010457
2011345
2012331
2013363
2014313
2015328
2016322
2017298
2018272
2019250
2020268
2021215
2022214
2023169
2024189