The name Buffy is derived from the nickname for Elizabeth, which means God is my oath in Hebrew. Buffy was originally a male name, believed to have originated in the 17th century as a diminutive form of the name Buford. The name Buffy gained popularity as a female name in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, where it became associated with the stereotype of a blonde, blue-eyed, and athletic All-American girl. The name Buffy has been associated with several notable characters in popular culture, including Buffy Summers from the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Buffy Andrews from the TV series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Buffy the Vampire Layer from the 1992 film Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Buffy has also been used as a nickname for people with the name Elizabeth, such as Queen Elizabeth II, who was known as Buffy to her family and close friends. The name Buffy has been used in various forms of media, such as music, literature, and film, to represent a strong, independent, and confident female character. In some cultures, the name Buffy is associated with the supernatural, particularly with vampires and supernatural hunters, due to its association with the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The name Buffy has been used as a metaphor for empowerment and strength, particularly for women and girls who embody the qualities of the iconic Buffy characters. Buffy has been used as a term of endearment for people who are seen as strong, brave, and loyal, similar to the characteristics of the Buffy characters in popular culture. The name Buffy has been associated with the LGBTQ+ community, particularly with lesbian and bisexual women who identify with the strong and independent qualities of the Buffy characters.

The root form of Buffy is Buffy — meaning Promise of God.

Buffy remains a beloved choice, ranking #14 in the US. Timeless appeal across cultures and generations.