“friend, companion” — Associated with loyalty and friendship
Hebrew origin · Girl name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#187US 2023
1.6kBirths / yr
↓Falling
830.3kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 82 years in top 1001.72% of births at peak
How to pronounce Ruth
ROOTH
/ˈruːθ/ · stress on ROOTH · 1 syllable
“friend, companion”
Associated with loyalty and friendship · Hebrew origin
What does Ruth mean and where does it come from?
The name Ruth, spelled רוּת in Hebrew, comes from the Biblical Book of Ruth. It is associated with loyalty and friendship, as Ruth is known for her devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi. The name has been prevalent in both Jewish and Christian communities for centuries. In recent years, it has maintai
Cultural significance
Ruth has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of friend, companion.
Declining — down 8 spots — currently #187 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#187 · Top 0.14%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#187
1,602
▼ down 8 · -4% births
2022
#179
1,666
▲ up 8 · +6% births
2021
#187
1,578
▲ up 33 · +20% births
2020
#220
1,315
▲ up 72 · +19% births
2015
#292
1,103
▲ up 54 · +19% births
2010
#346
930
stable · +3% births
2005
#346
906
▼ down 7
2000
#339
907
▼ down 19 · +6% births
1995
#320
852
▼ down 15 · -6% births
1990
#305
906
▼ down 73 · -19% births
1985
#232
1,116
▼ down 24 · -11% births
1980
#208
1,254
▼ down 9 · +2% births
1975
#199
1,230
▼ down 21 · -32% births
1970
#178
1,817
▼ down 60 · -44% births
1965
#118
3,230
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ruth
1900Rank #5
26,102
#142
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Ruth
Ruth has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #3 in 1893, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 830K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Ruth is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Ruth means "friend, companion" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Ruth?
Ruth is currently ranked #187 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Ruth have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Ruth?
Ruth originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew 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 Ruth?
Ruth is a one-syllable name pronounced R UW1 TH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Ruth sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Ruth flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Ruth ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Ruth
For a sister
Ruth & Elizabeth♡
Ruth & Anna♡
Ruth & Eva♡
Ruth & Mary♡
For a brother
Ruth & Joseph♡
Ruth & Esther♡
Ruth & Simon♡
Ruth & Noah♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks