Tiffany

Etymology

Tiffany is a primarily English feminine form of the ancient Greek name Theophania, which means "manifestation of God." This name originates from the Greek elements theos (God) and phainein (to show). Traditionally, Tiffany was given to girls born on the Epiphany (January 6), a Christian festival also known as Theophany, which commemorates the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. The liturgical feast celebrates the revelation of God incarnate as Christ.

Historical Development and Revival

During the Middle Ages, the usage of Tiffany (and its variants such as Tiphaine and Tiphanie) was documented across Europe, particularly in France and England. The name, however, largely died out by the late medieval period. Its modern revival in English-speaking countries is a direct result of the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany's starring Audrey Hepburn. The film's title ironically refers to the Tiffany & Co. jewelry store in New York City, which was founded by Charles Lewis Tiffany in 1837. The success of the film sparked a significant increase in the name's popularity, especially after the 1980s.

Notable Bearers and Cultural Significance

Tiffany gained further prominence due to the character Tiffany Case, a diamond smuggler played by Jill St. John in the James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever (1971). The name's association with luxury and glamour arguably contributed to its widespread adoption. In the United States, the name peaked in popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with over 18,000 baby girls named Tiffany in 1988 alone. Among notable bearers, the American singer Tiffany (born Tiffany Renee Darwish) achieved international fame with her 1987 hit "I Think We're Alone Now."

Variants and Related Forms

Beyond English uses, related forms include Ancient Greek Theophania and Theophano, Greek Theofania and Fani, French Tiphaine and Tiphanie, as well as English variants Tiffani, Tiffanie, and Tiffiny.

• Meaning: manifestation of God
• Origin: Greek (Theophania)
• Type: Feminine given name
• Usage Regions: English-speaking countries (revived in modern times)