Bob - Name Meaning and Popularity -

Meaning of Bob

Bob, pronounced bahb (/bɑb/), is the affectionate short form of Robert—it springs from the old Germanic “hrod” (fame) and “beraht” (bright), giving it a down-to-earth sparkle that feels both classic and effortlessly friendly. Picture a neighborhood cookout where everyone’s greeting the host as “Bob”—that easygoing warmth is exactly the vibe this name carries. In mid-20th-century Maryland, Bob hovered around the top 100–120 boys’ names, a steady nod to its dependable charm rather than fleeting trendiness. Today, choosing Bob is like inviting a trusted friend into your family—straightforward, upbeat, and packed with good-natured spirit.