What does Rosa mean and where does it come from?
Rosa derives from the Latin word for 'rose,' a symbol of beauty and love. It has been widely used in Spain, Italy, and Latin America. The name has a rich historical context, often associated with famous figures such as Rosa Parks, the civil rights leader who played a pivotal role in the American civ
Cultural significance
Rosa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of rose.
Peak popularity
Reached #52 in 1880 — currently #669 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Rosa?
Rosa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Rosa Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Rosa Rose
Floral · soft ending
Rosa Claire
French influence · crisp
Rosa Jane
Literary · strong
Rosa Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Rosa right now?
Falling — down 64 spots — currently #669 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #669 | 441 | ▼ down 64 · -11% births |
| 2022 | #605 | 493 | ▲ up 56 · +9% births |
| 2021 | #661 | 451 | ▼ down 22 |
| 2020 | #639 | 450 | ▼ down 11 · -1% births |
| 2015 | #628 | 453 | ▼ down 65 · -12% births |
| 2010 | #563 | 516 | ▼ down 156 · -33% births |
| 2005 | #407 | 775 | ▼ down 90 · -23% births |
| 2000 | #317 | 1,003 | ▼ down 46 |
| 1995 | #271 | 1,008 | ▼ down 29 · -14% births |
| 1990 | #242 | 1,175 | ▲ up 10 · +16% births |
| 1985 | #252 | 1,011 | ▼ down 47 · -20% births |
| 1980 | #205 | 1,267 | ▼ down 1 · +5% births |
| 1975 | #204 | 1,207 | ▲ up 18 · -15% births |
| 1970 | #222 | 1,424 | ▲ up 4 · +1% births |
| 1965 | #226 | 1,405 | — |
The story of Rosa
Rosa has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #52 in 1880. More than 176,196 babies have been named Rosa since 1880. Once ranked #52 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #669 in 2023. Rosa is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Rosa in 1880:
Rosa by decade
Rosa peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 6,162 | |
| 1890s | 7,904 | |
| 1900s | 9,318 | |
| 1910s | 16,064 | |
| 1920s ★ | 20,958 | |
| 1930s | 16,217 | |
| 1940s | 16,917 | |
| 1950s | 19,994 | |
| 1960s | 15,124 | |
| 1970s | 12,380 | |
| 1980s | 10,929 | |
| 1990s | 11,160 | |
| 2000s | 7,997 | |
| 2010s | 4,622 | |
| 2020s | 450 | |
What are good nicknames for Rosa?
Famous people named Rosa
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Rosa (historical Roman figure)
Rosa carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
R(
Rosa (Renaissance scholar)
Rosa used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.
R(
Rosa (historical Roman figure)
Rosa carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Rosa?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Rosa also consider these
Common questions about the name Rosa
What does the name Rosa mean?
Rosa means "Rose" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Rosa?
Rosa is currently ranked #669 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 Rosa?
Rosa originates from Latin tradition. Latin 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 Rosa?
Rosa is a two-syllable name pronounced R OW1 Z AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Rosa more of a girl or boy name?
Rosa is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.