Tabatha is a unique and captivating female given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "taveth," which means "gazelle." The gazelle in Hebrew culture symbolizes grace, beauty, and swiftness. Therefore, Tabatha is often associated with these positive attributes.
The name Tabatha first gained popularity during the early 20th century, likely due to its biblical associations. In the New Testament of the Bible, Tabitha (also spelled Tabatha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa and performed many acts of kindness towards the poor. She was also known for her faith and good deeds, which contributed to the spread of Christianity.
Despite its biblical roots, the name Tabatha is not limited to religious contexts. Over time, it has gained popularity as a secular name choice for parents who appreciate its meaning and sound. Today, Tabatha can be found in various cultures around the world, though it remains relatively uncommon compared to other popular names.
In terms of its spelling and pronunciation, Tabatha is typically pronounced /təˈbɑːθə/ or /təˈbæθə/. The name consists of four syllables: Ta-ba-tha. Its spelling varies slightly depending on the region and language, with common variations including Tabitha and Tabatha.
Overall, Tabatha is a beautiful and meaningful female given name that has captured the hearts of parents for generations. With its Hebrew origins and biblical associations, it carries a rich history and symbolism that continues to resonate today.
The name Tabatha has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the decades in the United States. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, it was quite popular, with the number of births reaching its peak in 1983 with 837 newborn girls named Tabatha. However, as time passed, the name's popularity began to decline steadily.
By the year 2000, the number of babies named Tabatha had dropped significantly to just 180 births. This downward trend continued into the new millennium, with only 16 births in 2016 and 11 births in both 2018 and 2023.
Despite this decline in popularity, it's fascinating to note that the name Tabatha has still been given to a total of 19,387 newborn girls in the United States since 1965. This statistic demonstrates the enduring appeal of the name among parents over several decades.