Betsey
Betsey is a girl's name of Hebrew origin.
Meaning
Pledged to God or God is my oath.
Origin and history
Betsey is an archaic English diminutive of Elizabeth, which derives from the Hebrew name Elisheba. Popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, it is now an uncommon classical choice in the United States. Its usage today offers a vintage, literary charm while maintaining deep historical roots.
Popularity in the United States
2,481 babies in the United States have been named Betsey since 1880. It ranks #3547 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #2096.
States where it is most popular
- NY (42.8 %)
- MA (41 %)
- CT (6.6 %)
- OH (3.8 %)
- PA (3.4 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 33 |
| 1890-1900 | 32 |
| 1900-1910 | 27 |
| 1910-1920 | 107 |
| 1920-1930 | 230 |
| 1930-1940 | 304 |
| 1940-1950 | 495 |
| 1950-1960 | 393 |
| 1960-1970 | 289 |
| 1970-1980 | 279 |
| 1980-1990 | 177 |
| 1990-2000 | 36 |
| 2000-2010 | 38 |
| 2010-2019 | 36 |
| 2020-2029 | 5 |
Famous people named Betsey
- Betsey Johnson: Fashion Designer
Nicknames
Betsy, Bee, Bess
Fun facts
- Betsey was a very common spelling during the 18th century, used as a familiar form of Elizabeth in early American and British literature.
- The spelling appears in famous 19th-century works, such as Charles Dickens' David Copperfield featuring the character Betsey Trotwood.