What does Rut mean and where does it come from?
The name Rut is of Hebrew origin (רוּת) and is most commonly associated with the biblical figure Ruth, who is known for her loyalty and devotion. The name is widely used in Israel and has gained popularity in the Netherlands as well. The biblical Ruth was a Moabite woman who became part of the linea
Cultural significance
Rut has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of friend.
Peak popularity
Reached #4056 in 2009 — currently #8769 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Rut?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Rut?
Rut works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Rut Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Rut Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Rut Claire
One syllable · timeless choice
Rut Zoey
One syllable · vintage charm
Rut Maeve
One syllable · timeless choice
Rut Jade
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Rut right now?
Falling — down 2649 spots — currently #8769 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #8769 | 12 | ▼ down 2649 · -40% births |
| 2024 | #6120 | 20 | ▲ up 236 · +5% births |
| 2023 | #6356 | 19 | ▲ up 878 · +19% births |
| 2022 | #7234 | 16 | ▼ down 1111 · -20% births |
| 2021 | #6123 | 20 | ▲ up 1146 · +33% births |
| 2020 | #7269 | 15 | ▼ down 471 · -17% births |
| 2015 | #6798 | 18 | ▼ down 2253 · -44% births |
| 2010 | #4545 | 32 | ▲ up 633 · +28% births |
| 2005 | #5178 | 25 | ▼ down 711 · -7% births |
| 2000 | #4467 | 27 | ▲ up 2021 · +93% births |
| 1995 | #6488 | 14 | ▲ up 2436 · +56% births |
| 1990 | #8924 | 9 | ▼ down 2962 · -25% births |
| 1985 | #5962 | 12 | ▲ up 5558 · +140% births |
| 1980 | #11520 | 5 | — |
The story of Rut
Rut is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1976. With 759 total births recorded, Rut remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11520 in 1980 to #6356 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Rut in 2009:
Rut by decade
Rut peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 15 | |
| 1980s | 72 | |
| 1990s | 152 | |
| 2000s ★ | 269 | |
| 2010s | 236 | |
| 2020s | 47 | |
💎Rut has only 759 total recorded births since 1976 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Rut?
What names sound and feel like Rut?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Rut also consider these
How is Rut written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Rut
What does the name Rut mean?
Rut means "friend" — a name rooted in Israel 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 Rut?
Rut is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Rut have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Rut?
Rut originates from Israel tradition. Israel 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 Rut?
Rut is a one-syllable name pronounced RUHT. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Rut sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Rut flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Rut ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.