What does Rena mean and where does it come from?
Rena has multiple origins, including Hebrew and Latin. In Hebrew, it means 'joyful song,' making it a name often associated with happiness and celebration. The Latin meaning 'reborn' adds a layer of renewal to the name. In Japanese, it can refer to a water lily, signifying purity and beauty. Rena ha
Cultural significance
Rena has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of joyful song.
Peak popularity
Reached #153 in 1885 — currently #2402 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Rena?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Rena?
Rena works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Rena Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Rena Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Rena Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Rena Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Rena Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
Rena Brynn
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Rena right now?
Rising fast — up 286 spots — currently #2402 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2402 | 75 | ▲ up 286 · +15% births |
| 2024 | #2688 | 65 | ▼ down 1866 · -95% births |
| 2023 | #822 | 1,378 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #827 | 1,358 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #832 | 1,328 | ▲ up 1085 · +1255% births |
| 2020 | #1917 | 98 | ▲ up 848 · +56% births |
| 2015 | #2765 | 63 | ▼ down 775 · -37% births |
| 2010 | #1990 | 100 | ▼ down 188 · -7% births |
| 2005 | #1802 | 108 | ▼ down 346 · -14% births |
| 2000 | #1456 | 126 | ▼ down 37 · +10% births |
| 1995 | #1419 | 115 | ▼ down 295 · -26% births |
| 1990 | #1124 | 155 | ▼ down 282 · -20% births |
| 1985 | #842 | 193 | ▼ down 237 · -36% births |
| 1980 | #605 | 303 | ▼ down 27 · +6% births |
| 1975 | #578 | 286 | — |
The story of Rena
Rena has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 38,851 babies have received this name. Once ranked #174 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #822 in 2023. Rena is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Rena in 1885:
Rena by decade
Rena peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 1,219 | |
| 1890s | 1,945 | |
| 1900s | 2,117 | |
| 1910s | 4,179 | |
| 1920s ★ | 4,752 | |
| 1930s | 3,380 | |
| 1940s | 3,590 | |
| 1950s | 4,455 | |
| 1960s | 4,740 | |
| 1970s | 2,927 | |
| 1980s | 2,323 | |
| 1990s | 1,272 | |
| 2000s | 1,105 | |
| 2010s | 749 | |
| 2020s | 238 | |
What are good nicknames for Rena?
Famous people named Rena
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Rena (historical community leader)
Rena led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
R(
Rena (historical figure)
Rena bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Rena?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Rena also consider these
How is Rena written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Rena?
Common questions about the name Rena
What does the name Rena mean?
Rena means "Joyful song" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Rena?
Rena is currently ranked #822 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Rena?
Rena originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Rena?
Rena is a two-syllable name pronounced REE-nuh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Rena a common or rare name?
Rena is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.