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Reed Unisex

Popularity: #384 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationreed / /riːd/

English; Old English

Meaning

English: Red; Old English: Reed (a type of plant)

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Reed has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "hreod," which means "reed" or "rush." This term referred to the tall, slender plants that grow in wetlands, symbolizing resilience and adaptability. The name likely entered the English language during the early medieval period, as the Old English language evolved into Middle English. The transition from "hreod" to "Reed" reflects a common phonetic shift in the language, where the initial "h" sound was often dropped in later forms.

Historically, the name Reed has been borne by various notable figures, including individuals in literature and politics. One significant milestone in the name's history is its appearance in the 19th century, when it became associated with prominent families and individuals in England and America. The name has also been linked to various saints and biblical figures, although it does not have a direct biblical origin. Its usage in the context of English-speaking cultures has been reinforced through literary works and historical texts, contributing to its endurance over the centuries.

Culturally, the name Reed carries connotations of nature and strength, reflecting the characteristics of the reed plant itself, which is known for its flexibility and ability to thrive in challenging environments. This connection to the natural world has allowed the name to resonate with various traditions and symbolic meanings throughout history. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Reedie" have emerged in informal contexts, further embedding the name within familial and social structures. Overall, the name Reed encapsulates a blend of linguistic heritage, historical significance, and cultural associations that have contributed to its lasting presence.

Trend Summary

Reed has seen a steady level of popularity in the United States, remaining a classic choice.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Reid

International Variants

  • Ried (German)
  • Riedel (German)

Famous people named Reed

Reed Hastings is an entrepreneur best known for co-founding Netflix and serving as its CEO.

Reed Richards is a fictional character best known as Mr. Fantastic in Marvel Comics' Fantastic Four.

Reed Sorenson is a race car driver best known for competing in NASCAR events.

Fictional characters named Reed

Reed Richards is a fictional character from the comic book series Fantastic Four. He is the brilliant scientist known as Mr. Fantastic, who possesses the ability to stretch his body into incredible shapes.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Reed was first seen in the United States in 1881. Reed has ranked as high as #566 nationally, which occurred in 2014, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Utah. In the past 5 years the name Reed has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Reed (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 51
7%
TX 47
7%
PA 46
7%
KY 36
5%
OH 36
5%
TN 31
5%
FL 30
4%
NC 27
4%
MI 25
4%
VA 22
3%
WI 22
3%
LA 20
3%
MN 20
3%
GA 19
3%
MO 19
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18818
18829
18837
18849
18856
18865
18875
188815
188912
189013
189110
189215
189311
189412
189519
189616
189712
189820
18999
190014
190111
190221
190321
190417
190520
190619
190718
190818
190916
191030
191129
191243
191367
191466
1915101
1916100
1917127
1918123
1919104
1920123
1921142
1922136
1923119
1924108
1925114
1926144
1927109
1928120
1929112
1930105
1931108
193289
193386
193487
193580
193678
193767
193898
193973
194091
194196
1942131
1943111
1944109
1945112
1946135
1947160
1948172
1949268
1950204
1951241
1952250
1953263
1954252
1955270
1956282
1957283
1958252
1959197
1960214
1961179
1962197
1963166
1964185
1965157
1966153
1967148
1968142
1969155
1970173
1971129
1972121
1973136
1974148
1975130
1976141
1977145
1978191
1979141
1980198
1981196
1982217
1983207
1984204
1985230
1986233
1987240
1988255
1989226
1990238
1991276
1992367
1993437
1994509
1995550
1996532
1997504
1998524
1999558
2000529
2001501
2002468
2003478
2004514
2005530
2006568
2007617
2008726
2009687
2010759
2011809
2012817
20131,032
20141,096
20151,045
2016962
2017861
2018855
2019777
2020661
2021740
2022776
2023725
2024744