Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Tiffany”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Tiffany is of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word “Theophania,” which means “manifestation of God” or “revelation of God.” Theophania itself was traditionally associated with the Christian feast of Epiphany, celebrating the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles. Historically, Tiffany has been used as a given name in English-speaking countries, particularly from the Middle Ages where its roots can be traced to the name Theophania given to girls born on Epiphany.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

The name Tiffany carries a deeply spiritual connotation, suggesting a divine revelation or appearance. This profound meaning can be appealing to parents seeking a name with religious and cultural significance. Additionally, the name evokes feelings of enlightenment, spiritual awakening, and a sense of wonder. In modern times, the name Tiffany also conveys elegance and sophistication, often associated with luxury due to the iconic jewelry brand, Tiffany & Co.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Tiffany

1. Tiffany Brissette

• Historical Era: 1980s to early 2000s
• Key Contributions: Child actress known for her role as V.I.C.I. on the TV series “Small Wonder.”
• Cultural Impact: Brissette became a symbol of the ’80s era of American television, remembered for her portrayal of a child robot.

2. Tiffany Darwish (Known as Tiffany)

• Historical Era: 1980s and 1990s
• Key Contributions: American singer and teen pop icon famous for her 1987 hit “I Think We’re Alone Now.”
• Cultural Impact: Second wave of teenage pop idols in the late 1980s, she influenced the landscape of pop music and youth culture.

Usage Over Time

The name Tiffany saw significant popularity through the late 20th century, particularly in the United States. Peaking during the 1980s and 1990s, it emerged as a top choice for many parents. According to the Social Security Administration, Tiffany was exceptionally popular, ranking among the top 20 names for girls throughout the 1980s. However, its popularity has declined since the early 2000s, making it a less common but still recognized name today.

Pronunciation Guide

Tiffany is pronounced as “TIF-uh-nee,” with an emphasis on the first syllable. The name flows smoothly and retains a melodic quality, making it both easy to say and memorable.

Biblical Context

While the name Tiffany does not appear directly in the Bible, its meaning “Revelation Of God” aligns closely with Biblical themes. Epiphany, from which Theophania and subsequently Tiffany is derived, celebrates the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles as exemplified in Matthew 2:1–12, where the Magi visit baby Jesus. This association enriches the name’s spiritual significance.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

Tiffany is often associated with the number 6, symbolizing responsibility, nurturing, and a deep sense of compassion.

Variations

Theophania (Greek), Tifany (Old English), Tiffanie (Modern English).

Cultural Variants

In various cultures, Tiffany can be spelled or adapted differently while keeping its meaning intact.

Popularity in Recent Decades

Tiffany reached its peak popularity in the 1980s, featured in the top 20 names for girls. However, its popularity has waned since the early 2000s. According to the Social Security Administration’s data, it has gradually fallen out of the top 100 names, highlighting a shift toward less traditional naming trends in recent years.

Conclusion

In choosing the name Tiffany, expectant parents can appreciate its rich historical roots, spiritual significance, and cultural impact. Combining elegance with a profound meaning, Tiffany encapsulates the ideals of revelation and divine manifestation, making it a beautiful choice for a baby girl.