Ruth
ROOTH
Ruth is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin.
The etymology is debated among scholars: the most commonly cited interpretation derives the name from the Hebrew root reʼut, meaning “friend,” “companion,” or “bond of friendship.” Some scholars alternatively connect it to raʼa (meaning “to see”) or
to an origin in the Moabite language, reflecting Ruth’s ethnic heritage in the biblical narrative.
What the name Ruth means
The name’s primary source is the Book of Ruth in the Hebrew Bible, one of only 2 books of the Hebrew Bible named after a woman.
Ruth the Moabite is depicted as a model of loyalty and faithfulness, uttering the celebrated declaration: “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay.” Her story of devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi and her marriage to Boaz places her in
the genealogical line of King David.
Ruth was one of the most popular girls’ names in the United States in the early 20th century, ranking number 1 from 1892 to 1897 according to SSA records and remaining in the top 5 through approximately 1930.
The name then declined gradually through the latter half of the century. Notable American bearers include Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933-2020), the U.S. Supreme Court Justice who became a cultural icon.
Ruth has experienced a gentle revival in the 2010s and 2020s, appealing to parents drawn to short, strong, biblically grounded names. It also remains highly popular in the United Kingdom, particularly in Wales.
The name’s monosyllabic punch, deep historical roots, and associations with faithfulness and strength give it a gravity that few short names can match.
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 Ruth
Ruth - similar names
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