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Reign
Pronounced RAYN /reɪn/High
Meaning: From the English word 'reign,' meaning to rule or exercise sovereign power, derived from Old French 'reigne' and Latin 'regnum' (kingdom, rule); used as a bold, aspirational given nameHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Reign is an English word derived from Old French reigne and ultimately Latin regnum (kingdom, rule). As a given name, it belongs to the contemporary American tradition of aspirational royal word names alongside King, Royal, and Prince. The word has been used in English since the 13th century to denote the exercise of sovereign power.
As a given name, Reign gained significant traction in the 2010s, particularly after high-profile celebrity usage. It is used for both boys and girls, with female usage now predominating. The name fits a broader cultural moment when royal and power-themed names became fashionable baby name choices.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Reign Disick (2014–present)Child of Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick, born 2014
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Reign mean?
Reign means to rule or exercise sovereign power, from Old French and Latin 'regnum.' It is used as an aspirational given name suggesting royalty and authority.
How do you pronounce Reign?
Reign is a single syllable pronounced RAYN /reɪn/, identical to 'rain' and 'rein.'
Is Reign a girl or boy name?
Reign is used for both sexes but increasingly favored for girls, fitting within the trend for regal word names.
Is Reign a popular name?
Reign has been rising in the U.S. since the mid-2010s, boosted by celebrity use, and now ranks in the top 300 girls' names.






