Declining since 1985, #2,719 for girls today.
Popularity of Betsy since 1880
Babies named Betsy per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 166 |
| 1890s | 173 |
| 1900s | 189 |
| 1910s | 841 |
| 1920s | 2,551 |
| 1930s | 3,929 |
| 1940s | 6,980 |
| 1950s | 10,561 |
| 1960s | 8,558 |
| 1970s | 5,461 |
| 1980s | 4,059 |
| 1990s | 2,014 |
| 2000s | 1,805 |
| 2010s | 1,204 |
| 2020s | 456 |
Meaning & origin
Betsy, a diminutive of Elizabeth, has a long history as an independent name in the United States. First recorded in 1880, it reached its peak popularity in 1959. Since 1985, its usage has been steadily declining. In 2025, the name ranked 2,719, with approximately 1 in 25,512 baby girls named Betsy. The name has been most common in Georgia, Texas, and California. While no longer a top choice, Betsy retains a classic, friendly feel, evoking images of mid-century Americana.
Betsy originated as a diminutive of Elizabeth, derived from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning "God is my oath." It was commonly used in England and Scotland from the 16th century onward, often as a pet form before becoming an independent given name. The name gained popularity in the United States, especially during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Where Betsy 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Bet, Bets
Variants: Betsey
Sibling names for Betsy
Names that share Betsy's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Betsy
Names whose popularity has moved with Betsy's over the last 50 years.
