Beautiful
Derived from the French word for beautiful, this name has long been used as a short form of Isabella or Annabelle. It gained significant independent popularity in the 19th century and remains a quintessential romantic choice.
Less common today
Belle isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #807 in 2017.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
The book-loving protagonist who falls in love with a prince · Beauty and the Beast
Notorious American outlaw of the Wild West
The madam with a heart of gold · Gone with the Wind
Early 20th-century American singer and actress
