Bonnie
/ˈbɑn.i/
Bonnie means “pretty” or “beautiful,” from the Scottish English word bonnie, itself derived from Middle French bon meaning “good.” The word is iconic in Scottish culture.
The name surged after the 1939 film Gone with the Wind, where it was the nickname of Scarlett O’Hara’s daughter. Bonnie and Clyde (the 1930s outlaws) added a rebellious association.
Bonnie ranked No. 441 in 2024 with 703 births. It peaked at No. 33 in 1941 with 7,761 births, a wartime favourite now returning.
What the name Bonnie means
The name’s vintage revival follows the same pattern as Elsie, Mabel, and Hazel. It feels warm and approachable, with a hint of spunk.
Two syllables - BON-ee - are sunny and engaging. The name sounds cheerful and confident, matching its “pretty” meaning.
Parents choosing Bonnie embrace its Scottish charm and midcentury nostalgia. It works as both a standalone name and a nickname for longer names.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Bonnie
Bonnie - similar names
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