The given name Bobbette is a diminutive form of the name Bob, which itself is a shortened version of the name Robert. Robert is derived from the Germanic elements "hrod" meaning "fame" and "beraht" meaning "bright." The name Robert was introduced to Britain by the Normans after their conquest in 1066, but it did not become truly popular until after the 12th century.

Bobbette is believed to have originated as a French variant of the name, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century. While the name Robert has a long and well-documented history dating back to ancient times, with references in texts like the Domesday Book of 1086, the specific diminutive form Bobbette does not appear to have any significant historical references or notable bearers until more modern times.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Bobbette is Bobbette Audra Daughtry, an American actress born in 1924, who appeared in several films and television shows throughout the mid-20th century. Another early bearer of the name was Bobbette Bentivegna, an American model and actress born in 1926, who appeared in various films and television series in the 1950s and 1960s.

During the mid-20th century, the name Bobbette gained some popularity, primarily in the United States. One notable figure with this name was Bobbette Fergeson, an American professional golfer born in 1939, who competed on the LPGA Tour in the 1960s and 1970s. Another notable Bobbette was Bobbette Sanville, an American actress and singer born in 1936, who appeared in several television shows and films throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

While not a widely popular name, Bobbette has continued to be used occasionally throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. One recent example is Bobbette Stephens, an American singer and songwriter born in 1981, who has released several albums and performed as a backup vocalist for various artists.