Tabby

Girl Name
Origin:aramaic
Pronunciation:/ˈtæ.bi/

Tabby: a female name of Aramaic origin meaning "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle". It derives from the Aramaic word "ṭabītā".

Tabby is a feminine name that means "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle". Its Aramaic origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Tabby

Quick facts about Tabby
OriginAramaic
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle.” It is a biblical name, in which Tabitha is a woman raised from the dead by Saint Peter. The name was most popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s when it was ranked among the 200 most popular names for girls. Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36-42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas gazelle.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

ṭabītā

How to Pronounce Tabby

Tabby is pronounced /ˈtæ.bi/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Tab-by
  2. Say it like: "TAB-BY"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Tabby is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

english
Name Relationships

Tabby is an affectionate diminutive of Tabitha, commonly used in english speaking regions. This shortened form maintains the original meaning while offering a more intimate, familiar tone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tabby
What does the name Tabby mean?
Tabby means "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle.” It is a biblical name, in which Tabitha is a woman raised from the dead by Saint Peter. The name was most popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s when it was ranked among the 200 most popular names for girls. Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36-42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas gazelle.". The name comes from ṭabītā. In its original form, the name derives from ṭabītā (טביתא). This aramaic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Tabby for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle.” It is a biblical name, in which Tabitha is a woman raised from the dead by Saint Peter. The name was most popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s when it was ranked among the 200 most popular names for girls. Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36-42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas gazelle." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Tabby's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Tabby?
Tabby is a aramaic name. The name traces back to ṭabītā. The original form ṭabītā (טביתא) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The aramaic meaning "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle.” It is a biblical name, in which Tabitha is a woman raised from the dead by Saint Peter. The name was most popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s when it was ranked among the 200 most popular names for girls. Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36-42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas gazelle." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Tabby a boy or girl name?
Tabby is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In aramaic tradition, Tabby has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle.” It is a biblical name, in which Tabitha is a woman raised from the dead by Saint Peter. The name was most popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s when it was ranked among the 200 most popular names for girls. Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36-42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas gazelle." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Tabby?
Tabby is pronounced "/ˈtæ.bi/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Tabby is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with aramaic names, listening to a native speaker say Tabby can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root ṭabītā influences how Tabby sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Tabby?
Tabby is commonly used as a nickname for Tabitha. As a diminutive of Tabitha, Tabby started as an affectionate short form used by family and close friends. Many people named Tabitha go by Tabby throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In aramaic cultures, using Tabby as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Tabby as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Tabby on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Tabby?
Tabby is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Tabby offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Tabby's popularity may vary between aramaic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle.” It is a biblical name, in which Tabitha is a woman raised from the dead by Saint Peter. The name was most popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s when it was ranked among the 200 most popular names for girls. Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36-42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas gazelle." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Tabby holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Tabby commonly used?
Tabby is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though aramaic in origin, Tabby found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name is an anglicized feminine form, derived from an Aramaic word, translated into Hebrew: “ṭabītā,” meaning “gazelle.” It is a biblical name, in which Tabitha is a woman raised from the dead by Saint Peter. The name was most popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s when it was ranked among the 200 most popular names for girls. Dorcas (also known as Tabitha) was a disciple who lived in Joppa, referenced in the Book of Acts 9:36-42 of the Bible. The name Dorcas is a Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha, One species of the gazelle is now known as the Dorcas gazelle." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Tabby into their naming traditions. A child named Tabby will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Tabby is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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