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 has a long history of use in the United States, with its first recorded instance being in 1880 when 8 babies were named Tabitha that year. The popularity of the name remained relatively low throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with fewer than 15 births per year on average.
However, beginning in the mid-20th century, there was a significant increase in the number of babies being named Tabitha. In 1949, there were 15 births, and by 1959, that number had jumped to 24. This upward trend continued throughout the 1960s and 1970s, reaching a peak in 1978 with a total of 2310 babies named Tabitha.
After this peak, the popularity of the name began to decline once again, although it remained relatively stable for several decades. Between 1980 and 2000, there were between 992 and 1919 births per year with the name Tabitha.
Since the turn of the century, however, there has been a significant decrease in the number of babies being named Tabitha. In 2022, only 150 babies were named Tabitha, marking a significant decline from its peak popularity in the late 1970s. Overall, since 1880, there have been a total of 58,874 babies born in the United States with the name Tabitha.
In conclusion, while the name Tabitha has had periods of popularity and decline over the past century and a half, it remains a recognizable and historically significant name in the United States. Despite its recent decrease in popularity, there are still many individuals named Tabitha living in the US today.