Bette
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Bette
Bette, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of American origin.
Meaning of Bette
Consecrated to god
Bette is a diminutive form of the name Elizabeth, which is derived from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning "God is my oath."
| Meaning | Consecrated to god |
| Origin | American |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #992 in 1962 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1920s) |
Background & History of The Name Bette
The name 'Bette' is a female given name that has various origins and meanings. It can be considered a variant of the name 'Beth' or a diminutive of the name 'Elizabeth', which derives from the Hebrew name 'Elisheva', meaning "God is my oath". 'Bette' can also be traced back to the French word 'bĂȘte', meaning "beast" or "foolish". In this context, 'Bette' is commonly associated with nature, animals, or the idea of simplicity. Additionally, 'Bette' can be connected to the Yiddish word 'bobe', which means "grandmother".
The popularity of the name 'Bette' has varied over time. It gained significant popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, particularly between the 1920s and the 1940s. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the success of the American actress Bette Davis, who was one of the most acclaimed and influential actresses of her time. Davis' talent and charismatic personality left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, leading many parents to choose the name 'Bette' for their daughters.
'Bette' is also a name that has been associated with creativity and strength. As a result, it has been adopted by several notable figures in various fields, such as Bette Midler, a renowned American singer, actress, and comedian, and Bette Nesmith Graham, the inventor of Liquid Paper. These individuals have contributed to the positive connotations and cultural significance of the name 'Bette'.
Overall, 'Bette' is an intriguing and versatile name with multiple origins and meanings. Its associations with nature, simplicity, and strong-willed individuals make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Bette over the years.
Similar American Baby Names
Check Initials
See what initials Bette would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Bette.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account