Bess

What does the baby name Bess mean? Learn about what Bess means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Bess - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Bess: B-E-S-S, is a 4-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Bess: BES; bess
Meaning of Bess: God is my oath, promise of god, nickname from the name elizabeth, consecrated to god.
Origin of Bess: The name 'Bess' finds its origins in the Middle Ages as a diminutive form of the name Elizabeth. It was a popular choice in England, where it was affectionately given to girls named Elizabeth. The earliest known use of the name 'Bess' dates back to the 16th century, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. The queen herself was fondly referred to as 'Good Queen 'Bess' by her subjects, further solidifying the name 's association with regal grace.; American Names; English Names; Hebrew Names; Pet Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Bess: Alisa; Aliza; Alzbeta; Babette; Belita; Bell; Bella; Bessie; Beth; Betsy; Betta; Bette; Betty; Betuska; Eilis; Elisa; Elisabet; Elisabetta; Elise; Eliska; Elissa; Eliza; Elizabeth; Elka; Elle; Elsa; Elsbet; Elsie; Elspet; Elspeth; Elzbieta; Helsa; Ilsa; Isabel; Isabella; Leeza; Lib; Libby; Liese; Liesl; Liezel; Lilibet; Lisbeth; Lisette; Lisl; Lisle; Lizka; Lysa; Lyssa; Yelisaveta; Ysabel
Popularity of Bess: Over the centuries, the popularity of the name 'Bess' has fluctuated. It experienced a notable spike in usage during the Elizabethan era, thanks to the queen 's influence. 'Bess' became a common nickname for girls named Elizabeth, and its usage extended beyond the royal court. However, as time went on, the name gradually declined in popularity, giving way to other variations of Elizabeth.; Bess currently has 47 likes, and is in the top 9% of liked girl's names. The name Kamala is slightly more popular than Bess.

Etymology of Bess

The name 'Bess' has its linguistic roots in the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning 'God is my oath'. The Hebrew name was later anglicized to Elizabeth, which eventually led to the creation of the diminutive 'Bess'. The name carries a sense of devotion and faith, reflecting the deep-rooted meaning of its origin.

Cultural Significance of Bess

While the name 'Bess' does not hold significant cultural associations on a global scale, it does have a place within certain cultural contexts. In American literature, 'Bess' is immortalized in the classic opera 'Porgy and 'Bess' by George Gershwin. This iconic work tells the story of a disabled African American man named Porgy and his love interest, 'Bess'. The name 'Bess' is used to represent a character who embodies vulnerability, strength, and the power of love.