Ruby

What does Ruby mean?

Ruby takes its name from the gemstone and traces back to the Latin word for red. As a name it evokes the vivid colour of the stone and the sense of something rare and valued.

The tone of Ruby is warm, lively and tactile. It feels bright and approachable, with a vintage charm that has come back into fashion. The name suggests energy, warmth and a hint of glamour without feeling overly formal.

Historical Context

The use of gemstone names as given names has a long history, and Ruby emerged in English-speaking contexts in the 19th century. It became particularly fashionable in the late Victorian and Edwardian eras when gem and virtue names were popular for girls. The name was inspired directly by the gemstone rubis or rubeus in Latin and Old French references to red stones.

Ruby declined in use in the mid 20th century before enjoying a revival from the late 20th century onwards. The modern use leans into both its vintage feel and its straightforward, sensory appeal. While the core origin is Latin, the name has been adopted internationally in slightly different spellings and forms, reflecting its simple sound and striking meaning.

Popularity of Ruby over time

In 2025, Ruby was given to 1,032 girls in the UK and 3,554 girls in the US. Ruby has remained fairly steady over the last 20 years, and remains a popular girls' name especially in the US.

What do parents think of Ruby?