Robin
RAH-buhn
Robin derives from the medieval French and English diminutive of Robert, from the Old German Hrodebert combining hrod (“fame”) and beraht (“bright”). The bird name is a separate, coincidental homophone from Old English.
Originally a masculine nickname, Robin shifted to predominantly feminine use in the US during the mid-20th century, likely influenced by the robin bird, which carries gentle, spring-associated connotations in American culture.
Robin ranked No. 799 in 2024 with 351 births. It peaked at No. 25 in 1962 with 15,129 births — a top-25 name for girls at its height, long since declined.
What the name Robin means
Comedian Robin Williams (1951–2014) kept the masculine form prominent, while for girls the name is associated with characters in mid-century television and literature.
British comedian Robin Williams aside, the female Robin remains the more distinctly American cultural form.
Two syllables — ROB-in — are short, familiar, and balanced. The name has a neutral, grounded quality that sits equally in both boy and girl traditions.
Parents who want a classic, short, unisex name with bird associations and a mid-century American feel find Robin a satisfying choice. It is simple without being bland.
Related forms include Robyn (the more frequently feminine spelling today), Robbin, and Robena. The masculine Robert and its diminutives Rob and Bob share the same Germanic root.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Robin
Robin - similar names
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