Betsy is a name of English origin that has been used for centuries. It is a diminutive form of the name Elizabeth, which means "God is my oath" in Hebrew. The name Betsy was first used as a given name in the 17th century and became popular in the United States during the 19th century.
One notable figure with the name Betsy was Betsy Ross, an American flag maker who is credited with sewing the first American flag. She was born Elizabeth Griscom in Philadelphia in 1752 and changed her name to Betsy after she married John Ross.
Today, the name Betsy continues to be used as a given name for girls. It is often associated with warmth and friendliness due to its familiar sound and connotations of kindness. However, it's important to note that the use of diminutive forms like Betsy can vary greatly depending on cultural norms and personal preferences.
Overall, the name Betsy has a rich history rooted in English tradition and American culture, with a meaning that carries deep religious significance. Its continued popularity as a given name reflects its enduring appeal and timeless charm.
The name Betsy has been popular among parents in the United States for over a century, with varying trends in its usage over time.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of babies named Betsy fluctuated annually. Between 1880 and 1925, there were years when as few as 14 or as many as 367 girls were given this name at birth. The most notable increase in popularity occurred between 1913 and 1915, with a significant jump from 49 births in 1913 to 108 in 1914, and then to 284 in 1915.
The mid-20th century saw Betsy's popularity peak. From 1950 to 1967, there were over 900 births each year with the name Betsy, reaching its highest point in 1959 with 1390 babies. However, this trend began to decline thereafter.
By the late 20th century and early 21st century, Betsy's popularity had significantly decreased. Between 1986 and 2023, there were fewer than 400 births per year with the name Betsy. The most recent data from 2022 shows that only 76 girls were named Betsy at birth.
In total, over the course of these 142 years (from 1880 to 2023), there have been 48,802 babies born in the United States with the name Betsy. Despite fluctuations in popularity, this name has remained a timeless choice for parents across generations.