Log in · Sign up

Robin Unisex

Popularity: #614 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationROH-bin / /ˈrɒb.ɪn/

English; Latin

Meaning

English: bright fame; Latin: redbreast (referring to the robin bird)

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Robin has its roots in the Old French name "Robinet," which is a diminutive form of "Robert." The name Robert itself originates from the Germanic elements "hrod," meaning "fame," and "beraht," meaning "bright." This etymological journey traces back to the Proto-Germanic hrōþiz and berhtaz, which evolved into the Old High German "Hruodpert" and the Old Norse "Hróðbertr." The transition into English occurred during the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, where the name was adopted and adapted into various forms, including Robin.

Historically, the name Robin has been associated with notable figures and cultural milestones. In medieval England, Robin Hood emerged as a legendary figure, often depicted as an outlaw who stole from the rich to give to the poor. This character, first recorded in the 13th century, became a symbol of social justice and resistance against tyranny. Additionally, the name appears in various literary works, including the famous poem "A Gest of Robyn Hode" from the late 15th century, which solidified Robin's place in English folklore. The name also appears in the King James Bible, where it is sometimes used in translations to refer to a type of bird, further embedding it in the cultural lexicon.

Culturally, the name Robin has been associated with themes of nature and renewal, particularly due to its connection with the robin bird, which is often seen as a harbinger of spring. This association has contributed to the name's enduring appeal in various artistic and literary contexts. The diminutive "Robbie" is also historically relevant, offering a more affectionate form of the name that has been used in various cultures. Overall, Robin carries a rich tapestry of historical significance and cultural resonance, reflecting both its linguistic origins and its evolution through time.

Trend Summary

The name Robin has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Robyn
  • Robbie

International Variants

  • Robina (Italian)
  • Róbin (Icelandic)

Famous people named Robin

Robin Williams is an actor and comedian best known for Good Will Hunting, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Jumanji.

Robin Wright is an actress best known for The Princess Bride, House of Cards, and Forrest Gump.

Robin Thicke is a singer and songwriter best known for Blurred Lines, Lost Without U, and Magic.

Robin Roberts is a television broadcaster best known for Good Morning America and ESPN's SportsCenter.

Robin Gibb was a musician best known as a member of the Bee Gees, known for hits like Stayin' Alive and How Deep Is Your Love.

Robin van Persie is a former professional footballer best known for his time with Arsenal and the Netherlands national team.

Fictional characters named Robin

Robin Hood is a fictional character from English folklore and various adaptations. He is a legendary outlaw known for 'robbing from the rich and giving to the poor.'.

Robin is a fictional character from the DC Comics universe. They are a superhero sidekick, primarily associated with Batman, and have taken on various identities over the years.

Robin is a fictional character from the animated series Teen Titans. He is the leader of the Teen Titans and is known for his combat skills and intelligence.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Robin was first seen in the United States in 1904. Robin has ranked as high as #56 nationally, which occurred in 1961, and has been most popular in California, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Robin has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Robin (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 52
18%
TX 47
16%
NY 18
6%
WA 16
5%
NC 15
5%
GA 13
4%
VA 13
4%
PA 11
4%
IN 11
4%
MA 11
4%
FL 9
3%
IL 9
3%
OH 8
3%
MN 7
2%
MO 7
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19046
19095
19106
19128
191310
19146
191517
19166
191711
191819
19198
192020
192115
192233
192324
192430
192542
192619
192738
192836
192946
193050
193137
193258
193358
193465
193565
193669
193780
1938104
1939131
1940206
1941239
1942310
1943333
1944375
1945621
1946773
1947936
19481,094
19491,281
19501,991
19512,891
19523,641
19536,038
19549,044
195510,217
195611,621
195712,579
195811,548
195912,854
196013,972
196115,651
196215,129
196314,434
196414,329
196511,995
19669,440
19677,693
19688,181
19697,502
19707,004
19716,213
19725,368
19734,805
19744,525
19754,328
19763,623
19773,429
19783,440
19793,208
19802,808
19812,867
19822,768
19832,387
19842,111
19852,012
19862,266
19871,911
19881,765
19891,800
19901,414
19911,233
19921,056
1993998
1994799
1995727
1996719
1997596
1998496
1999462
2000423
2001359
2002271
2003255
2004253
2005214
2006226
2007214
2008188
2009178
2010158
2011146
2012175
2013190
2014226
2015260
2016239
2017256
2018271
2019262
2020292
2021291
2022324
2023358
2024351