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Rufina Girl

Popularity: #940 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationroo-FEE-nah / ruːˈfiːnə

Latin; Italian

Meaning

Latin: 'red-haired'; Italian: 'little red'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Rufina has its roots in Latin, derived from the word "rufus," meaning "red" or "red-haired." This etymological origin suggests a connection to physical characteristics, particularly hair color, which was a notable trait in ancient Roman culture. The name evolved through various linguistic forms, transitioning from Latin to early Christian contexts, where it was adopted and adapted in different regions, including the early medieval period in Europe. The name Rufina entered the English language primarily through ecclesiastical channels, as many Latin names were Latinized and subsequently adapted into vernacular languages during the spread of Christianity.

Historically, the name Rufina is associated with several notable figures, including early Christian martyrs. One such figure is Saint Rufina, a Christian martyr from the 3rd century, who, along with her sister Secunda, was venerated in the Roman Catholic Church. Their story is commemorated in various hagiographies, which contributed to the name's endurance in Christian communities. The name also appears in various historical texts and documents throughout the Middle Ages, often linked to noble families or saints, reinforcing its significance in religious and cultural contexts.

Culturally, Rufina has been associated with qualities such as strength and resilience, often reflecting the virtues attributed to the saints bearing the name. The name has also been linked to themes of sacrifice and devotion, particularly in the context of martyrdom. In some cultures, diminutive forms such as Rufi or Rufa may have emerged, though these variations are less commonly documented. Overall, Rufina's historical and cultural resonance is deeply intertwined with its Latin origins and the legacy of early Christian figures, ensuring its place in the tapestry of names throughout history.

Trend Summary

Rufina has remained relatively uncommon in the United States.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Rufine
  • Rufina

International Variants

  • Rufina (Spanish)
  • Rufine (French)
  • Rufina (Italian)

Famous people named Rufina

Rufina Nifontova is a Russian painter best known for her landscape and portrait works.

Fictional characters named Rufina

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Rufina was first seen in the United States in 1892. Rufina has ranked as high as #862 nationally, which occurred in 1928, and has been most popular in California. In the past 5 years the name Rufina has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Rufina (2000)

StateBirthsShare
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18925
19025
19046
19055
19066
19085
19096
191011
19118
19126
19139
19147
191512
191612
191721
191816
191915
192017
192116
192216
192326
192431
192523
192630
192728
192832
192925
193018
193119
19329
193311
19347
19358
193617
19378
193815
19397
19407
194111
194211
194312
194414
19459
194616
194713
194813
194913
19508
195110
19529
19537
19548
195513
19566
19585
19596
19609
19616
19625
196411
19658
196710
19685
19706
19717
19729
19757
19776
19785
19796
19807
198110
19827
19837
19845
19855
19866
19877
19896
19908
19918
19927
19937
19956
199613
19975
19985
19997
20008
20028
20037
20055
20069
20076
20087
20105
20135
20168
20198
20205
20239
202410