debbie

Debbie is a feminine given name, commonly used as a diminutive form of Deborah. The given name Deborah stems from Hebrew, where it is traditionally interpreted as meaning "bee." Debbie entered English-speaking usage in the 20th century and has since been established as a distinct, familiar given name in many contexts.

Variants of the name include Deb, Debra, Debbi, and Debby. Some people use Debbie as a standalone name rather than a nickname, and the spelling often varies by region and generation. The name’s popularity has fluctuated over time, with a notable peak in the mid-20th century in the United States and other English-speaking countries.

Notable people named Debbie span a range of fields. Debbie Allen (born 1950) is an American dancer, choreographer, and actress known for her work in film, television, and stage. Debbie Reynolds (1932–2016) was an American actress and singer celebrated for her long career in film and music. Debbie Harry (born 1945) is the American singer best known as the frontwoman of the band Blondie. Debbie Gibson (born 1970) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame as a teen pop star in the late 1980s. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (born 1966) is an American politician who has served in the United States Congress.

In popular culture, Debbie appears as a common character name across various media, reflecting its approachable and familiar feel. While the name remains in use, it has become less common for newborns in recent years, as naming trends have shifted toward newer forms, though Debbie remains a recognizable and enduring diminutive of Deborah.