“descendant of Rannoch” — Associated with the meaning 'little Rannoch
Scotland origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#11806US 2021
6Births / yr
↓Falling
324All-time births
📅 Since 191200
How to pronounce Rankin
RANGK·in
/ˈræŋk.ɪn/ · stress on RANGK · 2 syllables
“descendant of Rannoch”
Associated with the meaning 'little Rannoch · Scotland origin
What does Rankin mean and where does it come from?
Rankin is a Scottish surname derived from the given name Rannoch, which is of Gaelic origin. The name is often associated with the meaning 'little Rannoch.' It has historical roots in Scotland, particularly in the Highlands, and has been in use since the Middle Ages. The first recorded use of the na
Cultural significance
Rankin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of descendant of rannoch.
Peak popularity
Reached #2247 in 1913 — currently #11806 in the US.
Falling — down 3093 spots — currently #11806 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2021#11806 · Top 8.7%
1915
1920
1925
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1985
2010
2020
2021
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2021
#11806
6
▼ down 3093 · -25% births
2020
#8713
8
▲ up 2141 · +33% births
2010
#10854
6
▼ down 4967
1985
#5887
6
▼ down 2697 · -25% births
1960
#3190
8
▼ down 111
1955
#3079
8
▲ up 785 · +60% births
1950
#3864
5
▼ down 703 · -17% births
1945
#3161
6
▲ up 493 · +20% births
1940
#3654
5
▼ down 1303 · -55% births
1935
#2351
11
▲ up 824 · +38% births
1930
#3175
8
▲ up 374 · +14% births
1925
#3549
7
▼ down 468 · -22% births
1920
#3081
9
▼ down 321
1915
#2760
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Rankin
1935Rank #2351
11
#4937
↘Falling
1915 - 202114 years
The story of Rankin
Rankin entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. With 324 total births recorded, Rankin remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2760 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11806 in 2021.
Rankin means "descendant of Rannoch" — a name rooted in Scotland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Rankin?
Rankin is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Rankin have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Rankin?
Rankin originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Rankin?
Rankin is a two-syllable name pronounced R AE1 NG K IH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Rankin trending right now?
Rankin is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Rankin
For a sister
Rankin & Graham♡
Rankin & Elsie♡
Rankin & Malcolm♡
Rankin & Paisley♡
For a brother
Rankin & Graham♡
Rankin & Elsie♡
Rankin & Malcolm♡
Rankin & Burness♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2021
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#11806
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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