Ruben

Behold, a son — a boy name of Spanish origin

GenderBoy
OriginSpanish
MeaningBehold, a son
Pronunciationroo-BEN

Popularity of Ruben in the United States

#480Rank in 2025
632Births in 2025
#165 in 1980Peak Popularity
↓ Declining10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Ruben

Ruben is the Spanish and Dutch spelling of Reuben, from the Hebrew "re'u ben," meaning "behold, a son." In the Bible, Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah and the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The Ruben spelling has flourished across Spain, Latin America, and the Netherlands for centuries, valued for its warm, dignified sound. It offers a stylish, internationally recognized alternative to the traditional English spelling Reuben.

Ruben Around the World

Ruben is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 6+ international variants.

Languages
GermanItalianDutch
Details

TypeMale given name

International Variants
RubénSpanish
ReubenEnglish
RúbenIcelandic
Ruwen
Reuven
Rubin

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Ruben

RubeRu

Famous People Named Ruben

  • Rúben Dias — Portuguese professional footballer
  • Ruben Östlund — Swedish film director and Palme d'Or winner
  • Ruben Amorim — Portuguese football manager

Similar Names to Ruben

If you like Ruben, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

Also consider:Reuben

Sibling Name Ideas for Ruben

Looking for names that pair well with Ruben? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Ruben mean?

Ruben is a boy name of Spanish origin meaning "Behold, a son." Ruben is the Spanish and Dutch spelling of Reuben, from the Hebrew "re'u ben," meaning "behold, a son." In the Bible, Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah and the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

How do you pronounce Ruben?

Ruben is pronounced roo-BEN. Common variations include Reuben, Rubin, Rueben.

Is Ruben a boy name?

Yes, Ruben is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Rube, Ru.

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