Log in · Sign up

Ruth Girl

Popularity: #167 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationrooth / /ruːθ/

Hebrew

Meaning

friend; companion

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Ruth has its origins in the Hebrew language, derived from the word "re'ut," which means "friendship" or "companion." This name appears in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Ruth, where Ruth is a Moabite woman who becomes the great-grandmother of King David. The text was likely composed during the period of the monarchy in ancient Israel, around the 10th century BCE, and it highlights themes of loyalty, devotion, and the importance of familial ties. The name was subsequently adopted into Greek as "Routh," and later into Latin as "Ruth," which facilitated its entry into Old French and eventually into Middle English by the 14th century.

Ruth's significance in biblical literature has made it a name of enduring cultural resonance. The Book of Ruth is notable for its portrayal of a strong female character who exemplifies loyalty and kindness, qualities that have led to the name being associated with virtuous attributes. The story of Ruth's commitment to her mother-in-law Naomi and her eventual marriage to Boaz has been interpreted as a narrative of redemption and inclusion, particularly in the context of Ruth being a foreigner in Israel. This biblical account has inspired various artistic and literary works throughout history, reinforcing the name's prominence in Judeo-Christian traditions.

In addition to its biblical roots, the name Ruth has been embraced in various cultural contexts, often symbolizing loyalty and friendship. The name has also been associated with several saints, including Saint Ruth, who is venerated in certain Christian traditions. The diminutive form "Ruthie" has emerged as an affectionate variant, though the name itself has maintained its original form in most contexts. Overall, Ruth's historical and cultural significance has contributed to its lasting presence in various societies.

Trend Summary

Ruth has seen a decline in popularity in the United States since the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Ruthie

International Variants

  • Rute (Portuguese)
  • Ruth (German)
  • Ruth (English)

Famous people named Ruth

Ruth Bader Ginsburg was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court best known for her work on gender equality and civil rights.

Ruth Wilson is an actress best known for her roles in The Affair, Luther, and His Dark Materials.

Ruth Negga is an actress best known for her performances in Loving, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and Passing.

Ruth Rendell was a novelist best known for her psychological thrillers and the Inspector Wexford series.

Ruth Graham was an author and speaker best known for her work in Christian literature and as the wife of evangelist Billy Graham.

Ruth Prawer Jhabvala was a screenwriter and novelist best known for her collaborations with Merchant Ivory Productions and her novels.

Ruth Asawa was a sculptor best known for her intricate wire sculptures and contributions to public art.

Ruth E. Carter is a costume designer best known for her work on Black Panther, Malcolm X, and Selma.

Fictional characters named Ruth

Ruth is a fictional character from the novel Ruth by Elizabeth Gaskell. She is a young woman who faces societal challenges and personal struggles in her quest for love and acceptance.

Ruth is a fictional character from the TV series The Walking Dead. She is a member of the survivor group who navigates the dangers of a post-apocalyptic world.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Ruth was first seen in the United States in 1880. Ruth has ranked as high as #11 nationally, which occurred in 1920, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Illinois, and California. In the past 5 years the name Ruth has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Ruth (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 162
10%
CA 143
8%
NY 84
5%
OH 83
5%
NC 74
4%
FL 73
4%
IN 70
4%
IL 61
4%
PA 58
3%
TN 57
3%
WA 54
3%
MO 53
3%
VA 53
3%
GA 53
3%
MN 51
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880234
1881275
1882323
1883387
1884442
1885506
1886581
1887627
1888850
18891,073
18901,195
18911,857
18923,290
18933,658
18943,372
18953,551
18963,905
18973,878
18984,249
18993,912
19004,765
19013,974
19024,384
19034,517
19044,900
19055,068
19065,140
19075,573
19086,180
19096,509
19107,212
19118,003
191211,280
191312,609
191415,839
191521,878
191623,189
191723,568
191825,535
191924,562
192026,102
192125,783
192223,633
192323,638
192423,600
192522,247
192620,225
192719,412
192817,859
192916,022
193014,942
193113,131
193212,256
193311,137
193410,565
19359,989
19369,217
19379,602
19389,303
19399,063
19408,887
19418,863
19429,315
19439,369
19448,674
19458,046
19468,475
19478,481
19487,903
19497,651
19507,128
19517,076
19526,953
19536,582
19546,566
19556,187
19566,075
19575,667
19585,247
19595,056
19604,942
19614,896
19624,293
19633,869
19643,640
19653,231
19662,846
19672,420
19682,150
19691,900
19701,816
19711,629
19721,383
19731,273
19741,299
19751,230
19761,198
19771,191
19781,208
19791,202
19801,258
19811,267
19821,178
19831,124
19841,165
19851,116
19861,084
19871,031
1988997
1989986
1990907
1991985
1992855
1993861
1994882
1995853
1996802
1997857
1998853
1999875
2000909
2001951
2002905
2003896
2004914
2005908
2006891
2007963
2008928
2009915
2010934
2011906
2012931
2013993
20141,063
20151,109
20161,103
20171,212
20181,250
20191,351
20201,326
20211,578
20221,666
20231,602
20241,767