A 1960s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Beth since 1884
Babies named Beth per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 77 |
| 1890s | 240 |
| 1900s | 334 |
| 1910s | 2,027 |
| 1920s | 3,101 |
| 1930s | 3,311 |
| 1940s | 8,661 |
| 1950s | 33,987 |
| 1960s | 58,384 |
| 1970s | 28,860 |
| 1980s | 15,373 |
| 1990s | 3,457 |
| 2000s | 942 |
| 2010s | 412 |
| 2020s | 264 |
Meaning & origin
Beth began as a nickname for Elizabeth but has long stood on its own. First recorded in 1884, it reached peak popularity in 1964, when it was a top choice for American parents. After declining for decades, Beth has been rising again since 2016, reflecting a broader revival of 1960s names. Today it is most popular in Utah and Texas, and its style aligns with similar mid-century names like Lisa and Suzanne.
Beth originated as a short form of Elizabeth, which itself derives from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning 'God is my oath.' It became an independent given name in the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its use was partly popularized by the character Beth March in Louisa May Alcott's 1868 novel 'Little Women.'
Where Beth is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Beth” around the world
Where Beth lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Ireland
16
babies in 2025
Sources: CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Sibling names for Beth
Names that share Beth's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Beth
Names whose popularity has moved with Beth's over the last 50 years.
