The nameRuth

Ruth is a girl's name of Hebrew origin, that of a heroine of the Bible. It was given in France throughout the 20th century.

Meaning

Its meaning is debated. It is often linked to the Hebrew re'ut, "friend, companion".

Origin

Hebrew. The Book of Ruth tells of this Moabite woman's loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi. She is the great-grandmother of King David.

History

Ruth has been given steadily in France since the early 20th century, without ever becoming common.

Popularity of the name Ruth

Ruth in France

980thmost popular girls' name in France, latest official figures
2019peak year (50 births)
3,085babies named Ruth in France since 1900
02550 1900192019401960198020002020
Births per year in France. Source: Insee, French national statistics office, latest official figures. Rounded numbers.

Ruth was most popular in France in the 2000s, with 410 births over the decade, 13% of all recorded babies named Ruth. Half of all babies named Ruth in France were born before 1982, so it is mostly a parents' generation name. Over the last five years on record, it has been falling: 33 births a year on average, against 42 in the five years before.

Ruth in our baby name lists

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Ruth mean?

Its meaning is debated. It is often linked to the Hebrew re'ut, "friend, companion".

What is the origin of the name Ruth?

Hebrew. The Book of Ruth tells of this Moabite woman's loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi. She is the great-grandmother of King David.

Is Ruth a girl's or a boy's name?

Ruth is a girl's name.