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Ruby Girl

Popularity: #63 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationROO-bee / /ˈruːbi/

Latin; English

Meaning

Latin: red gemstone; English: precious stone

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Ruby derives from the Latin word "ruber," meaning "red," which refers to the precious gemstone of the same name. The term made its way into Old French as "rubie" before being adopted into Middle English in the 14th century. The gemstone has been associated with various cultural significances, often symbolizing love, passion, and vitality, which contributed to the name's appeal as a given name for girls in English-speaking countries.

Historically, the name Ruby has been linked to various notable figures and events. The gemstone itself has been revered since antiquity, with references found in ancient texts, including the Bible, where it is mentioned as one of the stones in the breastplate of the High Priest (Exodus 28:18). During the Middle Ages, rubies were believed to possess protective qualities, and their association with nobility and wealth further enhanced their allure. The name Ruby began to be used as a personal name in the 19th century, coinciding with a growing interest in gemstones and their meanings.

Culturally, the name Ruby has resonated through literature and art, often embodying themes of beauty and strength. It has appeared in various works, including literature and songs, symbolizing enduring love and passion. The name's connection to the vibrant red color of the gemstone has made it a symbol of warmth and affection. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Rube" have emerged, though the full name remains more prevalent in historical contexts. Overall, Ruby's etymological roots, historical significance, and cultural associations have contributed to its lasting presence as a feminine name.

Trend Summary

Ruby has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, consistently ranking among the top names for girls in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Rubie
  • Rubi

International Variants

  • Rubi (Spanish)
  • Rube (Dutch)
  • Rubina (Italian)

Famous people named Ruby

Ruby Rose is an actress and model best known for Orange Is the New Black, John Wick: Chapter 2, and Batwoman.

Ruby Bridges is an activist best known for being the first African American child to integrate an all-white elementary school in the South.

Ruby Wax is a comedian and author best known for her work on Ruby Wax Meets..., Ruby's Rules, and as a television presenter.

Fictional characters named Ruby

Ruby is a fictional character from the animated web series RWBY. She is the main protagonist and leader of Team RWBY, known for her determination and combat skills.

Ruby Rose is a fictional character from the comic book series and animated series RWBY. She is a skilled huntress who fights against monstrous creatures known as Grimm.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Ruby was first seen in the United States in 1880. Ruby has ranked as high as #50 nationally, which occurred in 1924, and has been most popular in California, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, and Alabama. In the past 5 years the name Ruby has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Ruby (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 374
11%
TX 271
8%
FL 164
5%
OH 152
5%
NY 148
4%
NC 132
4%
PA 128
4%
UT 128
4%
IL 120
4%
WA 105
3%
IN 100
3%
GA 97
3%
TN 95
3%
MN 87
3%
MO 80
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188092
1881119
1882136
1883163
1884244
1885272
1886301
1887309
1888445
1889522
1890540
1891554
1892695
1893769
1894874
1895954
1896994
18971,025
18981,191
18991,103
19001,540
19011,225
19021,458
19031,538
19041,701
19051,885
19061,962
19072,113
19082,229
19092,524
19102,893
19113,372
19124,452
19134,913
19145,625
19157,237
19167,686
19177,662
19188,134
19198,334
19208,336
19218,333
19228,003
19238,232
19248,406
19257,843
19267,476
19277,264
19286,692
19296,152
19305,993
19315,331
19325,469
19334,944
19344,977
19354,765
19364,226
19374,289
19383,941
19393,712
19403,619
19413,581
19423,519
19433,470
19443,190
19452,904
19463,050
19473,069
19482,894
19492,577
19502,414
19512,351
19522,375
19532,342
19542,143
19552,009
19561,992
19571,783
19581,639
19591,501
19601,387
19611,278
19621,148
19631,382
19641,113
1965985
1966807
1967745
1968639
1969681
1970695
1971730
1972638
1973635
1974601
1975628
1976616
1977601
1978628
1979661
1980659
1981677
1982622
1983591
1984595
1985593
1986558
1987631
1988621
1989765
1990954
19911,004
19921,040
19931,033
19941,031
19951,053
1996985
19971,040
19981,207
19991,209
20001,266
20011,365
20021,579
20031,707
20042,120
20052,472
20062,582
20072,900
20083,020
20093,019
20102,797
20112,769
20122,918
20133,319
20143,429
20153,467
20163,847
20173,587
20183,590
20193,738
20203,339
20213,596
20223,619
20233,356
20243,517