Remi

♂ Boy

Pronounced REM-ee /ˈɹɛm.iː/High

Meaning: Oarsman or rower; the French form of Remigius, from the Latin remigium meaning oarsmanship, from remus meaning oarHigh

In 30 seconds: Remi is the French form of the Latin Remigius meaning oarsman, a name carried by Saint Remi who baptized Clovis king of the Franks in 496 AD, and now a sleek unisex two-syllable name popular on both sides of the Atlantic.

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Origin HighFrench, Latin

MeaningOarsman or rower; the French form of Remigius, from the Latin remigium meaning oarsmanship, from remus meaning oar

U.S. rank (2025)#787 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births323 boys (0.02% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2021

Total births (all-time)≈ 4,184

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Remi derives from the Latin Remigius, from remigium meaning oarsmanship or the act of rowing, from remus (oar). Saint Remi (Remigius), Archbishop of Reims, became one of the most important figures in early Frankish Christianity. The name has been used in France since at least the 5th century.

Remi has been a traditional French name for over 1,500 years. In the United States, it gained traction in the 21st century for both boys and girls, appreciated for its brevity and European elegance. The animated film Ratatouille (2007) featured a rat named Remy, further boosting the name's recognition and charm.

Did you know? Saint Remi (Saint Remigius, c. 437-533) baptized Clovis I, king of the Franks, on Christmas Day 496 AD, converting the Frankish kingdom to Christianity. This act is considered one of the defining moments in European Christian history, shaping the religious destiny of France for centuries.

Overall data confidence 91%

Behind the Name — Remi — Latin etymology and French saint historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

RemyRemieRemigius

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

★Remi (Remigius of Reims) (437–533)
Bishop of Reims who baptized the Frankish king Clovis I around 496 AD, a significant act in the Christianization of the Franks.

If you like Remi…

Felix— same French-influenced two-syllable classical name with modern breezy appeal

Theo— shares the short, warm two-syllable classic European feel

Leo— same crisp two-syllable vintage European name with current fashion

Milo— fellow two-syllable European classic with a friendly, approachable sound

Frequently Asked

What does the name Remi mean?

Remi means oarsman or rower, from the Latin remigium, the French form of Remigius.

How do you pronounce Remi?

It is said REM-ee, two syllables with stress on the first.

Is Remi a boy or girl name?

Remi is used for both boys and girls in the United States, making it a popular gender-neutral choice.

Is Remi French?

Yes, Remi is primarily a French name, derived from Saint Remigius, Archbishop of Reims.