Tabitha is a unique and charming name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "tabitha," which means "gazelle." In ancient times, gazelles were seen as symbols of grace, beauty, and swiftness, making Tabitha a name rich in symbolism.
The name Tabitha gained prominence during biblical times. In the Acts of the Apostles, a woman named Tabitha is mentioned who was known for her good deeds and charity. She was brought back to life by the apostle Peter after she had died, which further cemented her place in religious history.
Throughout history, Tabitha has been associated with various notable figures beyond its biblical roots. For instance, Tabitha Scott was an English suffragette who played a significant role in the fight for women's rights during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This further attests to the name's enduring appeal and the accomplishments of those who bear it.
Today, Tabitha remains a distinctive and appealing choice for parents seeking a name that is both unique and meaningful. Its Hebrew origins and biblical associations give it a timeless quality, while its association with grace and beauty makes it an attractive option for many families. Despite its rich history, however, Tabitha is still relatively uncommon, making it a standout choice for those looking for a distinctive name for their child.
The name Tabitha experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years. In its early years, from 1880 to 1965, it maintained a steady but relatively low number of births per year, ranging between 5 and 34. However, starting in 1966, there was a dramatic increase in the name's popularity, with over 28 births recorded that year alone. This trend continued until it peaked in 1978 with an astonishing 2310 births, indicating that Tabitha was at its most popular during this period.
From 1979 onwards, the number of births with the name Tabitha began to decline steadily but remained quite high until around the mid-1990s. In subsequent years, there was a significant drop-off in popularity, with fewer than 500 births per year recorded between 2000 and 2007. The trend of declining popularity continued into the 21st century, with numbers reaching an all-time low in recent years – just 142 births were recorded in 2023.
In total, there have been 58874 births registered with the name Tabitha from 1880 to 2023. This statistical journey illustrates how the popularity of a name can rise and fall over time, influenced by various cultural trends and personal preferences.