Deborah

Deborah is a female given name of Hebrew origin. It derives from the biblical Hebrew dv'orah, commonly transliterated D'vorah, meaning "bee." The name has many variants, including Debra, Debora, Deborrah, and Deborah is the most common English form. It is used chiefly in English-speaking countries and in countries influenced by Judaeo-Christian traditions; sometimes in other languages with phonetic adaptation. Diminutives include Deb, Debby, and Debbie.

In the Hebrew Bible, Deborah is a prophetess and judge of Israel who leads the people during a time of oppression by Canaanites. She, along with commander Barak, defeats Sisera in the battle at Mount Tabor; the narrative contains the Song of Deborah expressing gratitude to God; the warrior Jael is credited with killing Sisera. The story is cited as an example of female leadership and wisdom in biblical scholarship.

In modern times the name remains common; it has been borne by many public figures, including the American singer Deborah Harry, the British actress Dame Deborah Kerr, and the 18th–19th century American figure Deborah Sampson, who served in the Continental Army disguising herself as a man.