Robin Unisex
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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 52 | |
TX | 47 | |
NY | 18 | |
WA | 16 | |
NC | 15 | |
GA | 13 | |
VA | 13 | |
PA | 11 | |
IN | 11 | |
MA | 11 | |
FL | 9 | |
IL | 9 | |
OH | 8 | |
MN | 7 | |
MO | 7 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1904 | 6 |
1909 | 5 |
1910 | 6 |
1912 | 8 |
1913 | 10 |
1914 | 6 |
1915 | 17 |
1916 | 6 |
1917 | 11 |
1918 | 19 |
1919 | 8 |
1920 | 20 |
1921 | 15 |
1922 | 33 |
1923 | 24 |
1924 | 30 |
1925 | 42 |
1926 | 19 |
1927 | 38 |
1928 | 36 |
1929 | 46 |
1930 | 50 |
1931 | 37 |
1932 | 58 |
1933 | 58 |
1934 | 65 |
1935 | 65 |
1936 | 69 |
1937 | 80 |
1938 | 104 |
1939 | 131 |
1940 | 206 |
1941 | 239 |
1942 | 310 |
1943 | 333 |
1944 | 375 |
1945 | 621 |
1946 | 773 |
1947 | 936 |
1948 | 1,094 |
1949 | 1,281 |
1950 | 1,991 |
1951 | 2,891 |
1952 | 3,641 |
1953 | 6,038 |
1954 | 9,044 |
1955 | 10,217 |
1956 | 11,621 |
1957 | 12,579 |
1958 | 11,548 |
1959 | 12,854 |
1960 | 13,972 |
1961 | 15,651 |
1962 | 15,129 |
1963 | 14,434 |
1964 | 14,329 |
1965 | 11,995 |
1966 | 9,440 |
1967 | 7,693 |
1968 | 8,181 |
1969 | 7,502 |
1970 | 7,004 |
1971 | 6,213 |
1972 | 5,368 |
1973 | 4,805 |
1974 | 4,525 |
1975 | 4,328 |
1976 | 3,623 |
1977 | 3,429 |
1978 | 3,440 |
1979 | 3,208 |
1980 | 2,808 |
1981 | 2,867 |
1982 | 2,768 |
1983 | 2,387 |
1984 | 2,111 |
1985 | 2,012 |
1986 | 2,266 |
1987 | 1,911 |
1988 | 1,765 |
1989 | 1,800 |
1990 | 1,414 |
1991 | 1,233 |
1992 | 1,056 |
1993 | 998 |
1994 | 799 |
1995 | 727 |
1996 | 719 |
1997 | 596 |
1998 | 496 |
1999 | 462 |
2000 | 423 |
2001 | 359 |
2002 | 271 |
2003 | 255 |
2004 | 253 |
2005 | 214 |
2006 | 226 |
2007 | 214 |
2008 | 188 |
2009 | 178 |
2010 | 158 |
2011 | 146 |
2012 | 175 |
2013 | 190 |
2014 | 226 |
2015 | 260 |
2016 | 239 |
2017 | 256 |
2018 | 271 |
2019 | 262 |
2020 | 292 |
2021 | 291 |
2022 | 324 |
2023 | 358 |
2024 | 351 |