Betty
Betty began as a diminutive of Elizabeth, the Hebrew "Elisheva." It went through several stages — from Elisheva to Elizabeth to Elspeth to Betty. The "-y" suffix at the end is the standard English pet-name ending. For most of its history, Betty was a nickname, not a standalone name. Then came Betty Boop. The animated character, created in 1930, became one of the best-known cartoon figures of the 20th century. Betty Davis, born in 1908, was one of the greatest American film actresses — "All About Eve" (1950), "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?" (1962). Betty Friedan's "The Feminine Mystique" (1963) launched second-wave feminism. The name dominated the 1930s — it was the #2 girl name from 1927 to 1932, behind only Mary. Betty has been outside the top 1000 since 1997, but I think it is primed for revival. It has the same vintage bounce as Ruby and Daisy, and it carries more cultural weight than either. The "tt" doubled consonant gives it a friendly, almost percussive quality. Betty White, who died in 2021 at 99, kept the name beloved for one more generation. Betty is a female name of Hebrew origin that means "My God is my oath (from Elizabeth)". Vintage, friendly, and full of personality. The name sounds cheerful. Bettys tend to be sharp and funny. US #2 from 1927-1932. Outside top 1000 since 1997. Well-known people named Betty include Betty Davis (actress), Betty Friedan (feminist), Betty White (actress), Betty Boop (cartoon). Common variations and related forms of Betty include Elizabeth (full form), Bettie (older spelling), Bets (short), Betti (German).