Tiffay

Origin & Etymology

Tiffay is a phonetic variant of Tiffany, which derives from the Old French Tiphanie, itself from the Latin Theophania — meaning manifestation of God or Epiphany. Theophania was traditionally a name given to girls born on January 6th (the feast of the Epiphany). Tiffany entered English usage in the medieval period and was actually a common name in England during the Middle Ages before declining, only to be spectacularly revived in the 20th century.

Popularity Story

Tiffany exploded in popularity in the United States during the 1980s, climbing to peak in the top 10 girls names around 1988. It was propelled by the pop singer Tiffany, the Audrey Hepburn film Breakfast at Tiffany's, and the glamorous association with Tiffany and Co. jewelry.

Cultural Significance

Tiffany and Co., founded in New York in 1837, gave the name an enduring association with luxury, elegance, and the color teal. The name carries a distinctly American 1980s sensibility.

Fun Facts

• Tiffany was actually a popular medieval English name centuries before its 1980s revival
• Tiffany and Co. was founded in 1837, decades before the name's American popularity peak
• The singer Tiffany had a number one hit in 1987 at age 16, helping cement the name's decade-defining status

Tiffay in Other Languages