Ruby

♀ Girl

Pronounced ROO-bee /ˈruː.bi/High

Meaning: Deep red precious gemstone; from Latin rubeus, meaning redHigh

In 30 seconds: A sparkling Latin gem name meaning 'red' after the precious stone. Its vivid color association and one-word punch have made it a perennial Victorian-and-beyond favorite.

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Origin HighLatin

MeaningDeep red precious gemstone; from Latin rubeus, meaning red

Peak year1924

Total births (all-time)≈ 348,077

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Ruby comes from the Latin rubeus, meaning red, via Old French rubi. It began to be used as a given name in the 19th century, part of the Victorian fashion for jewel names.

Ruby was extremely popular in the early 20th century, then declined mid-century, and has surged back strongly in both the U.S. and the UK since the 2000s, currently sitting in the top 100 American girls' names.

Did you know? The ruby is July's birthstone and has symbolized passion and protection across many cultures for thousands of years.

Variations

RubieRubeeRubi

Nicknames

RubeRu

Famous Bearers

★Ruby Bridges (1954–)
American civil rights activist, the first African-American child to desegregate William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans in 1960.

If you like Ruby…

Violet— another one-word vintage name enjoying a modern revival

Scarlett— shares the bold red color association and vivid character

Frequently Asked

What does the name Ruby mean?

Ruby comes from the Latin rubeus meaning 'red,' and refers to the deep-red precious gemstone of the same name.

How do you pronounce Ruby?

It is said ROO-bee /ˈruː.bi/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Ruby a boy or girl name?

Ruby is used almost exclusively as a girl's name.

How popular is Ruby?

Ruby has been climbing steadily in the U.S., ranking in the top 100 girls' names in recent years.