What does Ruby mean and where does it come from?
Ruby is derived from the Latin 'rubeus', which means 'red', referring to the gemstone of the same name. The name became popular in the late 19th century and has maintained its appeal in various cultures given its vibrant connotation. Rubies have historically been associated with passion and love, wh
Cultural significance
Ruby has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of red gemstone.
Peak popularity
Reached #22 in 1911 — currently #65 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Ruby?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Ruby?
Ruby works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ruby Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ruby Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ruby Claire
French influence · crisp
Ruby Jane
Literary · strong
Ruby Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ruby right now?
Holding steady — currently #65 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #65 | 3,356 | ▼ down 3 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #62 | 3,619 | stable · +1% births |
| 2021 | #62 | 3,596 | ▲ up 12 · +9% births |
| 2020 | #74 | 3,308 | ▲ up 9 · -4% births |
| 2015 | #83 | 3,462 | ▲ up 30 · +24% births |
| 2010 | #113 | 2,794 | ▲ up 17 · +13% births |
| 2005 | #130 | 2,470 | ▲ up 128 · +95% births |
| 2000 | #258 | 1,264 | ▲ up 2 · +20% births |
| 1995 | #260 | 1,053 | ▲ up 31 · +10% births |
| 1990 | #291 | 953 | ▲ up 93 · +61% births |
| 1985 | #384 | 592 | ▼ down 27 · -10% births |
| 1980 | #357 | 660 | ▼ down 11 · +5% births |
| 1975 | #346 | 629 | ▲ up 11 · -9% births |
| 1970 | #357 | 695 | ▼ down 81 · -29% births |
| 1965 | #276 | 985 | — |
The story of Ruby
Ruby has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #22 in 1911. More than 361,746 babies have been named Ruby since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #149 in 1880 to #65 in 2023. Ruby is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ruby in 1911:
Ruby by decade
Ruby peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 2,645 | |
| 1890s | 8,819 | |
| 1900s | 18,354 | |
| 1910s | 60,811 | |
| 1920s ★ | 77,385 | |
| 1930s | 48,170 | |
| 1940s | 32,139 | |
| 1950s | 20,703 | |
| 1960s | 10,276 | |
| 1970s | 6,519 | |
| 1980s | 6,450 | |
| 1990s | 10,689 | |
| 2000s | 22,069 | |
| 2010s | 33,400 | |
| 2020s | 3,317 | |
What are good nicknames for Ruby?
What names sound and feel like Ruby?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ruby also consider these
How is Ruby written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Ruby
What does the name Ruby mean?
Ruby means "Red gemstone" — a name rooted in English 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 Ruby?
Ruby is currently ranked #65 in the United States 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 Ruby?
Ruby originates from English tradition. English 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 Ruby?
Ruby is a two-syllable name pronounced R UW1 B IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ruby more of a girl or boy name?
Ruby is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.