The girl's name Deborah \d(e)-bo-rah\ is pronounced DEB-er-ah. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "bee". Biblical: a prophetess who summoned Barak to battle against an invading army. The victory song she wrote after the battle is part of the Book of Judges. Actresses Deborah Kerr, Debbie Reynolds, Debra Winger, Debra Messing; Olympic figure skater Debi Thomas; TV journalist Deborah Norville.

ORIGIN
Hebrew

MEANING
Bee

The name of a biblical prophetess and judge of the Israelites who wrote the "Song of Deborah" in celebration of the Israelites victory over the Canaanites. It became popular with 17th century Puritans because the bee was a symbol of industriousness. It was influenced by British film actress Deborah Kerr during the late 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s which led to the name's top 25 ranking during that time. It's frequently used by Jewish families. The alternate spelling, "Debra," came along during the 1930s.

VARIATIONS
Dean

ALTERNATIVES
Debrah Debora Debra

NICKNAMES
Debby Deb Debbie

FAMOUS Deborahs
Debbie Armstrong (Olympic alpine skier) Debra Winger (actress) Deborah Norville (TV host) Deborah Harry (musician) Debbie Reynolds (actress) Deborah Gibson (singer/songwriter)

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