Bambi

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Bambi

Gender Girl
Origin Italian
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation bam-bee

Bambi, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of Italian origin.

Meaning of Bambi

Child

Bambi is a name of Italian origin that means "Little one" or "Child".

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Meaning Child
Origin Italian
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #934 in 1982 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era 70s name

Background & History of The Name Bambi

The name Bambi is most commonly associated with the fictional character from Disney's animated film of the same name. Bambi is a young deer and the protagonist of the film, which was released in 1942. Created by Austrian author Felix Salten, the character Bambi first appeared in the 1923 novel "Bambi, a Life in the Woods." In the novel, Bambi is a male roe deer, while the Disney adaptation presents Bambi as a white-tailed deer. The name Bambi is of Italian origin and means "child".

Beyond the cultural reference to the Disney character, the name Bambi has gained popularity as a given name over the years. It is often used to evoke a sense of innocence, delicacy, and grace. The name experienced a surge in popularity in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, likely influenced by the success of the Disney film. It has since become a relatively uncommon name, but still holds a recognizable and nostalgic quality.

Due to the association with the Disney character, the name Bambi often brings to mind imagery of gentle deer frolicking in the forest. This perception has led to the adoption of the name in various contexts, such as pet names for animals and brand names for products associated with nature and wildlife. It is worth noting that the use of the name Bambi has faced some criticism for perpetuating the infantilization of women or being overly cutesy.

Overall, the name Bambi has a rich history tied to literature and entertainment. It carries connotations of youthfulness, beauty, and vulnerability. While its popularity as a given name has waned over time, it continues to hold a place in popular culture and remains an option for those seeking a name with a whimsical and enchanting flair.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Bambi over the years.

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Common nicknames and short forms for Bambi.

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