Tabitha is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is deeply rooted in the biblical story of Dorcas or Tabitha, who was raised from the dead by the Apostle Peter. The name means "Gazelle" in Hebrew, symbolizing grace, speed, and beauty.
The name Tabitha first appeared in the New Testament of the Bible, where it was used to refer to a woman known for her good deeds and charity. After she died, Peter raised her from the dead, demonstrating the power of faith and the importance of kindness and compassion towards others.
Throughout history, the name Tabitha has been used by various notable figures. In the 17th century, it was given to a daughter of John Pym, an influential English parliamentarian during the period leading up to the English Civil War. More recently, the name gained popularity through its use in popular culture, such as in the television series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," where it was used for one of the main characters.
Despite its biblical origins and historical usage, Tabitha remains a rare and distinctive name, often associated with uniqueness and individuality. Its meaning continues to resonate with those who appreciate grace, beauty, and kindness, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a meaningful and memorable name for their child.
The name Tabithia has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1969 and 1995, there were a total of 165 babies named Tabithia born in the U.S.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can see that the name's popularity fluctuated quite significantly. The highest number of births with the name Tabithia occurred in 1984, with 13 babies being named that year. This was closely followed by another peak in 1989, with also 13 babies named Tabithia.
However, there were several years where the name's popularity declined significantly. The lowest number of births with the name occurred in 1969 and again in 1975, with just 7 and 5 babies respectively being named Tabithia those years.
Overall, while the name Tabithia has seen some peaks and valleys in popularity over the years, it remains a unique and distinct choice for parents looking to give their child a special name.