Bethany

1. Bethany name meaning and origin

Bethany is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin with profound biblical significance. Derived from the Hebrew 'Beth-te'ênâh' or 'Beth-anath,' the name translates to 'house of figs' or 'house of affliction.' In biblical context, Bethany refers to a village near Jerusalem where Jesus often visited and where significant New Testament events occurred, including the raising of Lazarus from the dead.

The name gained popularity in Christian communities following the Protestant Reformation, when biblical names became more widely adopted. Bethany has endured as a favored name choice across English-speaking countries for centuries, valued for its gentle phonetics and sacred associations. Its biblical connections have lent the name an aura of warmth, hospitality, and spiritual significance that continues to resonate with parents today.

2. Bethany name popularity

Bethany is a predominantly female name with roots in Biblical tradition, referring to a village near Jerusalem. While historical data on its specific rankings is limited, Bethany gained significant popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. The name also appears in male usage in the US, though this is considerably less common.

In the United Kingdom, Bethany has established itself as a recognizable female name, though its popularity patterns differ somewhat from those in America. The name carries a gentle, classic quality that has helped it maintain steady usage across English-speaking countries while avoiding the dramatic popularity spikes that can lead to a name becoming overly associated with particular generations.

3. Variations and nicknames of Bethany

The name Bethany, with its biblical origins referring to a village near Jerusalem, has flourished across many cultures, spawning numerous variants. In different European traditions, Bethany transforms into Betania in Italian and Spanish, Béthanie in French, and Betânia in Portuguese. These variations maintain the name's essence while adapting to linguistic patterns of their respective languages. Hebrew speakers might use Beit-Anya, closer to the original meaning of 'house of figs' or 'house of affliction.' Eastern European variants include Betanija in Serbian and Croatian, showcasing how this ancient name has traveled globally while adapting to local pronunciation patterns and spelling conventions.

Bethany's popularity has also led to a wealth of affectionate nicknames. The most common diminutives include Beth, Bethy, and Betty, which serve as convenient shorter forms. More playful derivatives include Betz, Bea, and Thany. Some families opt for Annie or Anny, drawing from the latter portion of the name. Teen bearers of the name might prefer trendy adaptations like B, Beff, or Effie. In professional settings, the full name Bethany often prevails, while intimate circles might use endearments like Betsy or Bethie. The versatility of Bethany allows its bearer to shift between formal and casual identities, selecting from these nicknames to suit different stages of life and social contexts. This adaptability, combined with the name's pleasant sound and meaningful heritage, contributes to its enduring appeal across generations.

4. Best name combinations with Bethany

5. Numerology of Bethany name

A Destiny Number 5 suggests Bethany is naturally versatile and freedom-loving. She thrives on change, adventure, and new experiences. In her career, she excels in roles requiring adaptability, quick thinking, and variety rather than routine. In relationships, she values her independence and needs a partner who respects her need for space while joining her adventurous pursuits.

Bethany's Soul Urge Number indicates she deeply desires stability, organization, and building solid foundations. Inwardly, she's motivated by creating order and is likely conscientious and detail-oriented. In relationships, she values loyalty, reliability, and practicality, seeking partners who share her work ethic and responsible approach to life.

With a Personality Number 8, Bethany presents herself as ambitious, confident, and business-minded. Others see her as someone with executive abilities who can handle power effectively. This number suggests she appears authoritative, practical, and goal-oriented in professional settings. In relationships, she may come across as strong-willed and protective, valuing partners who respect her ambition and drive for success.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Bethany name in pop culture

7. Famous people named Bethany