Origin and Meaning of Bobby

Meaning & Origin

Bright fame

Origin: English - Bobby is derived from the name Robert, which comes from the Old High German name Hrodebert, composed of the elements 'hrod' (fame) and 'berht' (bright).

Interesting Facts

  • Bobby became popular as a diminutive of Robert and has been commonly used as a standalone name since the 20th century.
  • The name Bobby has been used in various cultures, often reflecting a laid-back or friendly personality; it is commonly perceived as a casual or affectionate nickname.
  • Notable bearers of the name Bobby include Bobby Fischer, the American chess grandmaster, and Bobby Kennedy, a prominent political figure in the United States.
  • In terms of popularity, Bobby saw its peak in the mid-20th century, becoming a top 20 name for boys in the 1940s and 1950s before declining in use.
  • Variations of the name include Bob, Rob, and Robbie, with Robert being the formal name from which Bobby is derived.