What does Reid mean and where does it come from?
While Reid is traditionally a male name, it has gained traction as a female name in contemporary naming trends. Of Scottish and English origin, it historically denoted someone with red hair. The name also resonates with intellectualism through its connection to reading, making it suitable for famili
Cultural significance
Reid has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scottish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of red-haired.
Peak popularity
Reached #3312 in 1994 — currently #315 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scottish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Reid?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Reid?
Reid works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Reid Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Reid Rose
Floral · soft ending
Reid Claire
French influence · crisp
Reid Jane
Literary · strong
Reid Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Reid right now?
Rising — up 10 spots — currently #315 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #315 | 1,059 | ▲ up 10 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #325 | 1,040 | ▼ down 26 · -6% births |
| 2021 | #299 | 1,108 | ▲ up 3228 · +2538% births |
| 2020 | #3527 | 42 | ▲ up 698 · +24% births |
| 2015 | #4225 | 34 | ▲ up 509 · +13% births |
| 2010 | #4734 | 30 | ▲ up 1271 · +50% births |
| 2005 | #6005 | 20 | ▲ up 819 · +33% births |
| 2000 | #6824 | 15 | ▼ down 3144 · -48% births |
| 1995 | #3680 | 29 | ▲ up 5693 · +383% births |
| 1985 | #9373 | 6 | — |
The story of Reid
Reid is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1962. A total of 36,101 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9373 in 1985 to #315 in 2023. Reid is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Names that peaked alongside Reid in 1994:
Reid by decade
Reid peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 11 | |
| 1890s | 64 | |
| 1900s | 71 | |
| 1910s | 362 | |
| 1920s | 729 | |
| 1930s | 505 | |
| 1940s | 887 | |
| 1950s | 1,769 | |
| 1960s | 1,364 | |
| 1970s | 1,635 | |
| 1980s | 2,874 | |
| 1990s | 5,024 | |
| 2000s | 6,745 | |
| 2010s ★ | 12,977 | |
| 2020s | 1,084 | |
What are good nicknames for Reid?
What names sound and feel like Reid?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Reid also consider these
How is Reid written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Reid
What does the name Reid mean?
Reid means "red-haired" — a name rooted in Scottish 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 Reid?
Reid is currently ranked #315 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Reid?
Reid originates from Scottish tradition. Scottish 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 Reid?
Reid is a one-syllable name pronounced R IY1 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Reid sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Reid flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Reid ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.