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Deborah

Girl name · 4,414 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Deborah: 4,414 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 340 births in 1974.

A name of Hebrew origin, Deborah means "bee," a symbol of industry and sweetness in the ancient world. It appears in the Old Testament as the prophetess and judge who led Israel to victory, a powerful and wise figure. In modern times, the name is carried by actor Deborah Kerr, known for her graceful roles in classics like *The King and I*, and musician Deborah Harry, the iconic frontwoman of Blondie. The spelling Debra was a popular mid-20th century variant, while the name itself enjoyed considerable favour in Scotland during the 1960s and 1970s. Its biblical resonance gives it a timeless, upright quality, balanced by its gentle, earthy meaning.

Girl 39 of 52 years

Peak year
1974340 babies
Latest (2025)
#5395 babies
Total births
4,414since 1974
5-year trend
▼ 10%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 1974 · 340
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).