“regret” — Embodies sorrow and regret in English while also being a re
English origin · Unisex name
♂ 25% boys♀ 75% girls
#1259US 2023
183Births / yr
↑Rising
968All-time births
📅 Since 189600
How to pronounce Rue
ROO
/ˈruː/ · stress on ROO · 1 syllable
“regret”
Embodies sorrow and regret in English while also being a re · English origin
What does Rue mean and where does it come from?
Rue has a dual meaning; it serves as a name that embodies sorrow and regret in English while also being a reference to the herb with medicinal properties. The name Rue has roots in Old English and might evoke feelings tied to themes of loss or nostalgia. Although not extremely common, it has been us
Cultural significance
Rue has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of regret.
Peak popularity
Reached #1703 in 1900 — currently #1259 in the US.
Rising — up 35 spots — currently #1259 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1900–2023#1259 · Top 0.93%
1900
1915
1920
1925
1930
1935
1940
1950
1955
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1259
183
▲ up 35
2022
#1294
183
▲ up 453 · +55% births
2021
#1747
118
▲ up 732 · +71% births
2020
#2479
69
▲ up 2507 · +156% births
2015
#4986
27
▲ up 6290 · +200% births
2010
#11276
9
▼ down 5963 · +50% births
1955
#5313
6
▼ down 1587 · -33% births
1950
#3726
9
▲ up 778 · +80% births
1940
#4504
5
▼ down 1868 · -55% births
1935
#2636
11
▲ up 808 · +38% births
1930
#3444
8
▼ down 597 · -33% births
1925
#2847
12
▲ up 561 · +33% births
1920
#3408
9
▼ down 635 · -10% births
1915
#2773
10
▼ down 1070 · +43% births
1900
#1703
7
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Rue
2023Rank #1259
183
#3560
↗Rising
1900 - 202315 years
The story of Rue
Rue has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. With 968 total births recorded, Rue remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1703 in 1900 to #1259 in 2023. Rue is used for both genders: 75% female and 25% male.
Rue means "regret" — 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 Rue?
Rue is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Rue have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Rue?
Rue 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 Rue?
Rue is a one-syllable name pronounced R UW1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Rue sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Rue flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Rue ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Rue
For a sister
Rue & Alice♡
Rue & Cora♡
Rue & Daisy♡
Rue & Eliza♡
For a brother
Rue & William♡
Rue & Samuel♡
Rue & Cora♡
Rue & Daisy♡
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