Bess

Bess

What does the name Bess mean?

Bess is normally a shortened version of Elizabeth.

It's origin is Hebrew, and it really is used in both the English and Hebrew language. The name was initially popular because of Elizabeth Talbot (1527-1608), the Countess of Shrewsbury who was nicknamed Bess. In novels, Bess was used as the name for the heroine in George Gershwin's book called "Porgy and Bess" (1935).

What does the name Bess mean?

  • Origin: Hebrew
  • Quick Meaning: Consecrated to God
  • Number of letters: 4, Those 4 letters total to 9
  • Gender: Girl
  • Hebrew: Female Diminutive of Elisabeth: From Elisheba, meaning either oath of God, or God is satisfaction.
  • Greek: Female Diminutive of Elizabeth: From the Hebrew Elisheba, meaning either oath of God, or God is satisfaction.
  • Famous bearer: Old Testament Elizabeth was mother of John the Baptist and one of the earliest known bearers of this name; Queen Elizabeth II.

Variants of Bess include names spelle​d: Bessa, Besse, Besseah, Bessee, Bessey, and also Bessi. Other variants of Bess include the diminutive form of Bessie (English) and also Bessy (English). Bess is an uncommon name for girls. It was popular in 1901 where 0.042% of girls were called Bess. It ranked at #290 and since then steeply decreased in popularity. In 2010, within the group of girl names directly related to Bess, Elizabeth was by far the most frequently used.

What is the spiritual meaning of the double "ss" in Bess?

Due to the double "ss" in Bess this name is connected to temperance and moderation in all areas of your life. You also need to be aware of how tempting temptation can be and learn to resist situations and people in life in favor of responsibility and keeping your promises. This lesson will be easier if you balance your need for adventure and freedom with your responsibilities.

English: Female Diminutive of Elizabeth, meaning my god is bountiful, or god of plenty, used since the 16th century. Sometimes used as an independent name.

Positive traits

  • Listens to others due to the "ss" in the name
  • A good judge of character
  • Bess is a great organizer and has a crystal clear way of thinking

Negative traits

  • Will not focus sometimes
  • Worries about the future
  • Insensitive

By Flo Saul
Sep 20, 2012