Girl name · Hebrew
Ruth
“companion, friend”
Vibes
Common nicknames
Short-forms and diminutives parents often use for Ruth.
Explore Ruth further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Ruth — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Ruth is Hebrew — "companion, friend" — the Moabite woman whose loyalty ("whither thou goest, I will go") became the Bible's great friendship vow, and whose book is the only one named for a non-Israelite woman.
A top-ten titan of the early twentieth century, Ruth holds 240th place in 2024 — with Justice Ginsburg having already begun its rehabilitation among a certain kind of parent.
The name is one syllable of absolute loyalty. It pairs beautifully with longer middles (Ruth Evangeline, Ruth Magnolia) that soften its brevity. On our vibe map it is Heirloom bedrock — the name that stays.
More Hebrew names
Ruth sits in our Hebrew set — these share its roots.
All Hebrew names →Ruth — common questions
Is Ruth a boy or girl name?
Ruth is traditionally a girl name of Hebrew origin. It ranked #173 among US girls' names in 2025.
What does the name Ruth mean?
Ruth means “companion, friend” of Hebrew origin. Ruth is Hebrew — "companion, friend" — the Moabite woman whose loyalty ("whither thou goest, I will go") became the Bible's great friendship vow, and whose book is the only one named for a non-Israelite woman.
Where does the name Ruth come from?
Ruth is Hebrew in origin. A top-ten titan of the early twentieth century, Ruth holds 240th place in 2024 — with Justice Ginsburg having already begun its rehabilitation among a certain kind of parent.
What are common nicknames for Ruth?
Ruthie and Ru — the short-forms parents most often use for Ruth.
How popular is Ruth?
Ruth ranked #173 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which makes it familiar without being crowded.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Ruth you might want for the nursery.