Ruby Girl
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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 374 | |
TX | 271 | |
FL | 164 | |
OH | 152 | |
NY | 148 | |
NC | 132 | |
PA | 128 | |
UT | 128 | |
IL | 120 | |
WA | 105 | |
IN | 100 | |
GA | 97 | |
TN | 95 | |
MN | 87 | |
MO | 80 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 92 |
1881 | 119 |
1882 | 136 |
1883 | 163 |
1884 | 244 |
1885 | 272 |
1886 | 301 |
1887 | 309 |
1888 | 445 |
1889 | 522 |
1890 | 540 |
1891 | 554 |
1892 | 695 |
1893 | 769 |
1894 | 874 |
1895 | 954 |
1896 | 994 |
1897 | 1,025 |
1898 | 1,191 |
1899 | 1,103 |
1900 | 1,540 |
1901 | 1,225 |
1902 | 1,458 |
1903 | 1,538 |
1904 | 1,701 |
1905 | 1,885 |
1906 | 1,962 |
1907 | 2,113 |
1908 | 2,229 |
1909 | 2,524 |
1910 | 2,893 |
1911 | 3,372 |
1912 | 4,452 |
1913 | 4,913 |
1914 | 5,625 |
1915 | 7,237 |
1916 | 7,686 |
1917 | 7,662 |
1918 | 8,134 |
1919 | 8,334 |
1920 | 8,336 |
1921 | 8,333 |
1922 | 8,003 |
1923 | 8,232 |
1924 | 8,406 |
1925 | 7,843 |
1926 | 7,476 |
1927 | 7,264 |
1928 | 6,692 |
1929 | 6,152 |
1930 | 5,993 |
1931 | 5,331 |
1932 | 5,469 |
1933 | 4,944 |
1934 | 4,977 |
1935 | 4,765 |
1936 | 4,226 |
1937 | 4,289 |
1938 | 3,941 |
1939 | 3,712 |
1940 | 3,619 |
1941 | 3,581 |
1942 | 3,519 |
1943 | 3,470 |
1944 | 3,190 |
1945 | 2,904 |
1946 | 3,050 |
1947 | 3,069 |
1948 | 2,894 |
1949 | 2,577 |
1950 | 2,414 |
1951 | 2,351 |
1952 | 2,375 |
1953 | 2,342 |
1954 | 2,143 |
1955 | 2,009 |
1956 | 1,992 |
1957 | 1,783 |
1958 | 1,639 |
1959 | 1,501 |
1960 | 1,387 |
1961 | 1,278 |
1962 | 1,148 |
1963 | 1,382 |
1964 | 1,113 |
1965 | 985 |
1966 | 807 |
1967 | 745 |
1968 | 639 |
1969 | 681 |
1970 | 695 |
1971 | 730 |
1972 | 638 |
1973 | 635 |
1974 | 601 |
1975 | 628 |
1976 | 616 |
1977 | 601 |
1978 | 628 |
1979 | 661 |
1980 | 659 |
1981 | 677 |
1982 | 622 |
1983 | 591 |
1984 | 595 |
1985 | 593 |
1986 | 558 |
1987 | 631 |
1988 | 621 |
1989 | 765 |
1990 | 954 |
1991 | 1,004 |
1992 | 1,040 |
1993 | 1,033 |
1994 | 1,031 |
1995 | 1,053 |
1996 | 985 |
1997 | 1,040 |
1998 | 1,207 |
1999 | 1,209 |
2000 | 1,266 |
2001 | 1,365 |
2002 | 1,579 |
2003 | 1,707 |
2004 | 2,120 |
2005 | 2,472 |
2006 | 2,582 |
2007 | 2,900 |
2008 | 3,020 |
2009 | 3,019 |
2010 | 2,797 |
2011 | 2,769 |
2012 | 2,918 |
2013 | 3,319 |
2014 | 3,429 |
2015 | 3,467 |
2016 | 3,847 |
2017 | 3,587 |
2018 | 3,590 |
2019 | 3,738 |
2020 | 3,339 |
2021 | 3,596 |
2022 | 3,619 |
2023 | 3,356 |
2024 | 3,517 |