What does Reuben mean and where does it come from?
Reuben (רְאוּבֵן) has its origin from the Hebrew Bible, where it was borne by the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah. Traditionally, it is a male name, but there are instances where it is used for females, often as a derivative or inspired choice. The name has been used in various cultures, most promin
Cultural significance
Reuben has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of behold, a son.
Peak popularity
Reached #860 in 2024 — currently #889 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How popular is Reuben right now?
Declining — down 29 spots — currently #889 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #889 | 269 | ▼ down 29 · -5% births |
| 2024 | #860 | 283 | ▼ down 49 · -7% births |
| 2023 | #811 | 303 | ▲ up 43 · +7% births |
| 2022 | #854 | 284 | ▲ up 28 · +8% births |
| 2021 | #882 | 263 | ▲ up 6203 · +4283% births |
| 1970 | #7085 | 6 | — |
The story of Reuben
Reuben entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. A total of 30,676 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7085 in 1970 to #811 in 2023. Reuben is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Reuben in 2024:
Reuben by decade
Reuben peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 742 | |
| 1890s | 828 | |
| 1900s | 820 | |
| 1910s | 3,279 | |
| 1920s ★ | 3,881 | |
| 1930s | 2,269 | |
| 1940s | 2,060 | |
| 1950s | 2,191 | |
| 1960s | 2,074 | |
| 1970s | 2,549 | |
| 1980s | 2,771 | |
| 1990s | 2,424 | |
| 2000s | 2,220 | |
| 2010s | 2,327 | |
| 2020s | 793 | |
What are good nicknames for Reuben?
Famous people named Reuben
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Reuben (historical community leader)
Reuben led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →How is Reuben written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Reuben
What does the name Reuben mean?
Reuben means "behold, a son" — 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 Reuben?
Reuben is currently ranked #811 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Reuben have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Reuben?
Reuben 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.
Is Reuben trending right now?
Reuben is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Is Reuben a common or rare name?
Reuben is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.