Blithe is a unique and distinctive female given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "blīþ", which means happy or cheerful. The name Blithe has a long history, dating back to medieval times.
In Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, written in the late 14th century, there is a character named Blitha, a cook who is known for her happiness and good spirits. This literary figure helped to popularize the name and contributed to its enduring association with joyfulness.
Over time, Blithe has been used as both a given name and a nickname or diminutive of other names such as Elizabeth (Eliza), Isabel (Bella), and Blanche. It has also been used as an adjective in literature and poetry to describe someone who is carefree, happy, or lighthearted.
Despite its rich history and beautiful meaning, Blithe remains relatively uncommon today. However, those who bear this name carry with them a unique heritage of happiness and joyfulness that stretches back centuries. The name Blithe is truly a charming and memorable choice for parents looking for something special and distinctive for their daughter.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Blithe has seen a steady increase in popularity over the past few years in the United States. In 2012, there were 5 babies born with the name Blithe. This number increased to 6 births in 2014 and then rose again to 7 births in 2015. Overall, from 2012 to 2015, a total of 18 babies were named Blithe across the United States.