In the first place, this name was probably popular because it is a Biblical name, and the 17th century Puritans tended to choose these independently of meaning (for instance, the Biblical Delilah was also quite a popular Puritan name, even though it is associated with treachery.) However, the meaning of Deborah is "bee" in Hebrew, so the name also pleased them with its connotations of hard work and usefulness.
Deborah is also a well-loved Jewish name. In the Old Testament, Deborah was a female prophet and lawgiver, who led the people of Israel to victory over the Canaanites; she is one of the most prominent women in the Bible.
The name has several variants such as Debora and Debra (like the actress Debra Winger.) It is most commonly shortened to Debbie, although Deb and Debs are also used. Nowadays it is occasionally shortened to Decca, like the journalist Decca Aitkenhead.
Famous Deborahs include the late actress Deborah Kerr.
Deborah is also a well-loved Jewish name. In the Old Testament, Deborah was a female prophet and lawgiver, who led the people of Israel to victory over the Canaanites; she is one of the most prominent women in the Bible.
The name has several variants such as Debora and Debra (like the actress Debra Winger.) It is most commonly shortened to Debbie, although Deb and Debs are also used. Nowadays it is occasionally shortened to Decca, like the journalist Decca Aitkenhead.
Famous Deborahs include the late actress Deborah Kerr.