Ruth
Ruth is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning “Friend, companion”, pronounced ROOTH. It ranked #173 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,781 babies, and peaked at #3 in 1893. Common nicknames: Ruthie, Rue.
How popular is Ruth in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Ruth mean, and where does it come from?
Ruth comes from the Hebrew word "re'ut" meaning "friend" or "companion." In the Bible, Ruth is the central figure of the Book of Ruth, a Moabite woman who showed unwavering loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi after the death of their husbands, famously declaring "Where you go I will go." Ruth became the great-grandmother of King David, making her an ancestor of Jesus in Christian tradition. The name was very popular in the early 20th century and, while less common today, it retains a quiet dignity and timeless strength that appeals to parents seeking classic names.
How is Ruth used around the world?
Ruth is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 6+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Ruth?
Famous People Named Ruth
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg — Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court
- Ruth Handler — American businesswoman who created the Barbie doll
- Babe Ruth — legendary American baseball player
Similar Names to Ruth
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Sibling Name Ideas for Ruth
Looking for names that pair well with Ruth? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Ruth mean?
Ruth is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning "Friend, companion." Ruth comes from the Hebrew word "re'ut" meaning "friend" or "companion." In the Bible, Ruth is the central figure of the Book of Ruth, a Moabite woman who showed unwavering loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi after the death of their husbands, famously declaring "Where you go I will go.
How do you pronounce Ruth?
Ruth is pronounced ROOTH. Common variations include Rut, Ruthe, Ruthie.
Is Ruth a girl name?
Yes, Ruth is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ruthie, Rue.