Rosie

♀ Girl

Pronounced ROH-zee /ˈroʊzi/High

Meaning: Little rose; the rose flower, symbol of love and beautyHigh

In 30 seconds: A warm, rosy English diminutive of Rose meaning 'little rose.' Rosie is cheerful, instantly lovable, and radiates optimism — a name with the honest joy of a garden in bloom and the timeless appeal of the world's favourite flower.

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Origin HighEnglish, Latin

MeaningLittle rose; the rose flower, symbol of love and beauty

U.S. rank (2025)#283 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births1,088 girls (0.06% of U.S. girls)

Peak year1927

Total births (all-time)≈ 85,542

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Rosie is an English diminutive of Rose, derived from the Latin rosa (rose flower). The rose has symbolised love, beauty, and perfection since antiquity, and rose-names have been among the most popular in the Christian world since the medieval period, sustained by the rose's association with the Virgin Mary.

Rosie gained widespread popularity in the 19th century as affectionate diminutives became fashionable. In the 21st century it has returned strongly, entering the top 100 in the United Kingdom and climbing in the United States as parents seek warm, accessible vintage names.

Did you know? Rosie the Riveter, the iconic 1943 poster figure, became a symbol of women's wartime labour and feminist empowerment — giving the name an enduring association with strength, determination, and capability.

Overall data confidence 97%

Behind the Name — Rosie — etymology notesU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

RoseRosaRosalie

Nicknames

RoRosebud

Famous Bearers

★Rosie the Riveter (1943)
Iconic American cultural figure representing the women who worked in wartime factories, symbol of female strength.

If you like Rosie…

Daisy— cheerful English flower diminutive with the same sunny, affectionate energy

Poppy— bright flower name with the same bold, joyful British floral charm

Lilly— beloved English flower name with the same warm, two-syllable friendliness

Violet— Victorian flower name in the same revival wave with a similar sweet elegance

Frequently Asked

What does the name Rosie mean?

Rosie is an English diminutive of Rose, meaning 'little rose,' from the Latin rosa (rose flower).

How do you pronounce Rosie?

It is said ROH-zee /ˈroʊzi/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Rosie a boy or girl name?

Rosie is used almost exclusively as a girls' name.

How popular is Rosie?

Rosie ranked in the U.K. top 100 for girls and has been rising steadily in the U.S.