Holding steady.
Popularity of Bettye since 1883
Babies named Bettye per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 10 |
| 1890s | 37 |
| 1900s | 93 |
| 1910s | 550 |
| 1920s | 4,629 |
| 1930s | 7,051 |
| 1940s | 6,979 |
| 1950s | 2,803 |
| 1960s | 527 |
| 1970s | 132 |
| 1980s | 71 |
| 1990s | 38 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Bettye is a spelling variant of Betty, itself a diminutive of Elizabeth. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1883, gaining modest popularity before reaching its peak rank in 1933. Though the name has since declined from regular use, it remains a distinctive alternative to the more common Betty or Bettie. The trajectory of the name has been stable in recent years, with few new registrations. For families seeking a vintage-sounding name with a classic root, Bettye offers a nostalgic choice.
Bettye is a spelling variant of Betty, which originated as a diminutive of Elizabeth. Elizabeth comes from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning "God is my oath." The Bettye spelling emerged in the late 19th century, particularly in the United States, as a way to give the common nickname a more distinctive or feminine form. It saw peak usage in the 1930s.
Where Bettye 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
Sibling names for Bettye
Names that share Bettye's style, for a brother or sister.
