What does Ricci mean and where does it come from?
Ricci is an Italian name often used as a surname but can also be adopted as a given name. It is derived from the Italian word 'riccio,' which means 'curly,' and is often used to describe curly hair. In Italian culture, names that describe physical traits are common, and Ricci carries a playful and a
Cultural significance
Ricci has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italian-speaking communities, where it reflects values of curly, or a term of endearment.
Peak popularity
Reached #2141 in 1980 — currently #13709 in the US.
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Related Reading
Italian-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ricci?
Ricci works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ricci Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ricci Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ricci Mae
Sweet · timeless
Ricci Claire
French influence · crisp
Ricci Jane
Literary · strong
Ricci Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ricci right now?
Falling — down 3832 spots — currently #13709 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2005 | #14753 | 6 | ▼ down 3832 · -25% births |
| 2000 | #10921 | 8 | ▼ down 6537 · -65% births |
| 1995 | #4384 | 23 | ▲ up 371 · +15% births |
| 1990 | #4755 | 20 | ▼ down 1480 · -26% births |
| 1985 | #3275 | 27 | ▼ down 1134 · -44% births |
| 1980 | #2141 | 48 | ▲ up 2092 · +220% births |
| 1975 | #4233 | 15 | ▼ down 1735 · -50% births |
| 1970 | #2498 | 30 | ▲ up 3584 · +400% births |
| 1960 | #6082 | 6 | ▼ down 1011 · -14% births |
| 1955 | #5071 | 7 | ▼ down 1061 |
| 1945 | #4010 | 7 | — |
The story of Ricci
Ricci entered American naming records in 1945 and has been in use for over 79 years. With 1,722 total births recorded, Ricci remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4010 in 1945, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14753 in 2005. Ricci is used for both genders: 49% female and 51% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ricci in 1980:
Ricci by decade
Ricci peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 38 | |
| 1950s ★ | 410 | |
| 1960s | 285 | |
| 1970s | 301 | |
| 1980s | 382 | |
| 1990s | 219 | |
| 2000s | 67 | |
| 2010s | 20 | |
💎With 1,722 total births, Ricci is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Ricci?
What names sound and feel like Ricci?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ricci also consider these
Common questions about the name Ricci
What does the name Ricci mean?
Ricci means "Curly, or a term of endearment" — a name rooted in Italian 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 Ricci?
Ricci is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Ricci?
Ricci originates from Italian tradition. Italian 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 Ricci?
Ricci is a two-syllable name pronounced R IY1 CH IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ricci a common or rare name?
Ricci is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.