Libby

Libby originally arose from a child’s mispronunciation of Elizabeth and eventually became an independently given name in its own right. It may have also developed from Ibb which was a medieval short form of Isabel (a name which is also derived from Elizabeth). The name Elizabeth in its various linguistic forms has been around since the Middle Ages, mainly popularized by the French (using the spelling Élisabeth) in honor of Elisabeth from the New Testament (Luke 1:5-80). Elisabeth was the wife of Zachariah and the mother of John the Baptist (for more information on Elisabeth’s biblical significance, please see the name Elisabeth). The name is essentially Greek (Elisabet) from the Hebrew (Elisheva) meaning “God is my oath.” The biblical Elisabeth was the inspiration behind the usage of her name in Europe during the Middle Ages. Further cementing the popularity of this name were two much admired medieval saints: Elizabeth of Hungary and Elizabeth of Portugal. The favorable endurance of Elizabeth is rivaled only by Mary, Margaret and Catherine. Such long-lasting and enormously popular female names have spawned scores of variations and pet forms. Libby is an example of the many short forms which have developed over time from Elizabeth. Others include: Bess, Bessie, Beth, Betsy, Bette, Betty, Buffy, Eliza, Ella, Ellie, Elsa, Elsie, Elyse, Libbie, Liddy, Lisa, Liz, Liza, Lizbeth, Lizette and Lizzie. And that’s just a partial list! Surprisingly Libby is a Top 100 favorite name in England right now.