Meaning
House of figs, house of affliction
Origin
Hebrew
Gender
Girl / Female
Pronunciation
BETH-uh-nee
Name story
What Bethany communicates
Bethany is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning "House of figs, house of affliction". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.
It is pronounced BETH-uh-nee and sits at a popularity score of 38/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.
If Bethany feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Hebrew heritage or its core idea of "House of figs, house of affliction". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.
Famous People Named Bethany
- BBethany Hamilton
Names with Similar Meanings
Names that share similar themes and meanings with Bethany
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Bethany mean?
The name Bethany means "House of figs, house of affliction". It is a name of Hebrew origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Hebrew naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Bethany.
What is the origin of the name Bethany?
Bethany originates from Hebrew. Names of Hebrew origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Bethany fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "House of figs, house of affliction" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.
Is Bethany a popular name?
Bethany appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Bethany sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.
What names are similar to Bethany?
Names similar to Bethany include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Bethany but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Hebrew heritage or the same idea of "House of figs, house of affliction".
How do you pronounce Bethany?
Bethany is pronounced "BETH-uh-nee". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Bethany is said.
Is Bethany a boy or a girl name?
Bethany is most commonly used as a girl name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Hebrew roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.
What does the name Bethany symbolize?
The name Bethany symbolizes "House of figs, house of affliction". That theme gives Bethany a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "House of figs, house of affliction" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.
Is Bethany a good baby name?
Bethany is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "House of figs, house of affliction", has clear Hebrew heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.