Dorthy is a feminine given name of English origin. It is a variant spelling of Dorothy, which means "gift of God" in Greek. The name is derived from the Middle English Dudich, which was brought to England by the Normans during the 11th century. Dudich is composed of the elements "doudi," meaning "people," and "c," meaning "gift." Thus, Dorthy and Dorothy both convey the same meaning: a gift bestowed upon humanity by God.
The name Dorothy gained popularity in the English-speaking world due to its association with several prominent figures throughout history. One notable example is Dorothy Wyatt, who was a lady-in-waiting to Elizabeth I of England during the 16th century. Additionally, Saint Dorothy, a Christian martyr from the 4th century, has contributed to the name's enduring appeal.
In literature and popular culture, Dorothy has been featured prominently in various works. Perhaps the most famous is L. Frank Baum's "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" (1900), in which the protagonist Dorothy Gale plays a central role. This classic tale has cemented the name's place in American folklore and popular consciousness.
Overall, Dorthy is a timeless and elegant name with deep roots in history and culture. Its meaning, "gift of God," imbues it with a sense of reverence and grace, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that combines tradition and sophistication.
The name Dorthy experienced significant popularity spikes over time, with a total of 20,322 births recorded between 1885 and 2023. The name's peak occurred during the mid- to late 19th century, with consistent high numbers throughout the early 20th century. However, its popularity declined sharply after World War II, and it has remained relatively uncommon since then, with fewer than 10 births per year recorded in most recent years.