Derived from the Latin word for red, this gemstone name carries connotations of passion, protection, and prosperity. It is a name that refuses to fade into the background. Whether you picture a jazz singer in a smoky 1920s club or a precocious toddler with a mischievous grin, Ruby fits the bill perfectly.
Verdict: Ruby is an exceptional choice for parents seeking a “Goldilocks” name, it is recognizable but not overused, vintage but not outdated, and sweet but tough. It is a timeless classic that brings warmth and vitality to any child.
Ruby Overview
- Meaning: Ruby has Latin origins but comes from the Latin words “ruber” and “rubinous,” both meaning “red precious stone.”
- Gender: You can name a boy or a girl Ruby, but most people use it as a girl’s name.
- Origin: Ruby first became popular in the late Victorian era (late nineteenth century)
- Pronunciation: You pronounce the name Ruby as “RU-bee.”
- Popularity: The name Ruby was trendy in the US during the 1920s but gradually declined throughout the 20th century until a slight revival in the 2010s.
- Nicknames: Bea, Bee, Roo, Ru, Rube, Rubes, Rue.
- Variations: Rubee, Rubella, Rubey, Rubi, Rubie, Rubina.
- Namesakes: Ruby Bridges, the African American activist who helped integrate schools in America.
What Does Ruby Mean?
At its core, the name Ruby means “deep red precious stone.” However, the implications of the name go far beyond a simple description of color. In the world of gemology, the ruby is often associated with vitality, blood, and the heart. It is considered a stone of passion and energy.
Etymologically, the name is straightforward. It has Latin origins derived from the word ruber, which simply means “red.” This evolved into the Medieval Latin rubinus (the precious stone). Therefore, when you name a child Ruby, you are giving them a name that signifies intense color, fire, and life.
Where Does the Name Ruby Come From?
While the word itself is ancient, Ruby is a relatively modern invention as a given name. It is not a Biblical name, nor does it have roots in ancient mythology.
Ruby did not come into the popular consciousness as a given name until the late Victorian era. During the late 19th century, there was a massive cultural trend of naming girls after jewels and flowers (1). Along with Pearl and Opal, Ruby became a fashionable way to suggest that a daughter was precious and highly valued.
How Popular is the Name Ruby?
Ruby is the definition of a “comeback queen.” If you look at the trajectory of the name, it tells a story of vintage glamour, a quiet retirement, and a triumphant return.
The name was incredibly trendy in the US during the Jazz Age. Between 1919 and 1922, it was a top-tier choice, with over 8,000 babies named Ruby annually. As the decades passed, it slowly gained a “grandma” reputation, dipping in popularity and nearly falling off the radar by the 1980s.
However, the 21st century saw a massive revival of “vintage cool” names. Ruby began a steep climb in the mid-2010s. It has now cemented its status as a modern staple, with almost 4,000 babies named Ruby annually in recent years (2). It is no longer a rising star; it is an established favorite.
How Do I Pronounce Ruby?
The pronunciation is straightforward and consistent across most English-speaking regions. You pronounce the name Ruby as “RU-bee.” The emphasis should always be placed on the first syllable.
Is Ruby a Boy or Girl Name?
Ruby is overwhelmingly considered a feminine name in modern naming conventions. Its association with jewelry and its “-y” ending align it with traditional girl names like Lucy or Mary.
However, it is not historically exclusive to girls. In the early 20th century, Ruby appeared in the top 1,000 names for boys between 1900 and 1940. In some instances, Ruby serves as a nickname for the Hebrew male name Reuben. Despite this, if you name a boy Ruby in 2025, it will likely be viewed as a bold, gender-bending choice.
Variations of Ruby
While Ruby is the standard spelling in English-speaking countries, there are several variations that offer a slightly different flair or cultural nod.
- Rubina: A melodic variation of Italian and Portuguese origin.
- Rubi: A common spelling in Spanish-speaking communities.
- Rubie: An English spelling variant that was more common in the early 1900s.
- Rubella: A Latin variation (though parents should be aware this is also the medical term for German Measles, so caution is advised).
Nicknames for Ruby
Ruby is a short and simple name that doesn’t necessarily need a nickname, but affectionate diminutives are always fun. Here are common and creative options:
- Bee: A sweet, buzzing nickname derived from the second syllable.
- Rue: Sophisticated and literary (reminiscent of The Hunger Games).
- Roo: A playful, bouncy nickname, often associated with the character from Winnie the Pooh.
- Rubes: A casual, friendly option for close friends.
- Gem: A creative nickname playing on the meaning of the name.
- Red: A spunky nickname referencing the literal translation.
- Bibi: A vintage-style nickname that feels fresh today.
Names Similar to Ruby
If you love the vibe of Ruby but aren’t quite ready to commit, there are several other names that capture that same vintage, spunky, or colorful spirit.
- Hazel: Like Ruby, this is a nature/color name that was huge in the 1920s and is incredibly popular again today.
- Ivy: Short, punchy, and botanical, Ivy shares Ruby’s two-syllable, “ending in Y” structure.
- Scarlett: If you are drawn to the fiery red association of Ruby, Scarlett is the perfect sophisticated alternative.
- Sadie: Sadie shares Ruby’s spunky, retro nickname-style charm.
- Pearl: Another short, vintage gemstone name that is softer and more demure than Ruby.
- Violet: A floral and color name that matches Ruby’s Victorian pedigree.
- Lucy: Structurally very similar to Ruby (four letters, ends in ‘y’), Lucy feels slightly more traditional.
- Poppy: A bright, energetic flower name that shares the red imagery.
Middle Names for Ruby
Because Ruby is a short, two-syllable name ending in a vowel sound, it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of middle names.
Classic & Timeless
These names ground Ruby and give it a dignified, traditional feel.
Vintage & Whimsical
Lean into the 1920s charm with these pairings.
Modern & Edgy
Contrast the vintage first name with something cool and contemporary.
- Ruby Blair
- Ruby June
- Ruby Quinn
- Ruby Skye
- Ruby Wren
Sibling Names for Ruby
Creating a sibset for Ruby is about matching that specific “antique but energetic” energy.
For a Brother
You want a name that sounds established but not stuffy.
- Arthur
- Archie
- Charlie
- Felix
- George
- Harry
- Jasper (A perfect gemstone match for a boy)
- Leo
- Oliver
- Theodore
For a Sister
These names share Ruby’s vintage, feminine, and slightly sassy vibe.
Famous People Named Ruby
The name Ruby has been borne by activists, actresses, and artists, proving its versatility across different careers and eras.
- Ruby Bridges: An American civil rights activist. She was the first African American child to desegregate the all-white William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana in 1960.
- Ruby Dee: An acclaimed American actress, poet, and playwright, as well as a civil rights activist.
- Ruby Rose: An Australian model, DJ, and actress known for her edgy style and roles in action films.
- Ruby Wax: An American-British comedian and mental health campaigner.
- Ruby Keeler: A famous actress and dancer from the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals.
Ruby in Pop Culture
Writers love the name Ruby for its punchy sound and fiery connotations.
- Ruby Roundhouse: The “killer of men” avatar played by Karen Gillan in the Jumanji film series.
- Ruby: The responsible older bunny sister in the beloved children’s show Max & Ruby.
- Ruby Lucas: The “Red Riding Hood” character in the fantasy series Once Upon a Time.
- Ruby Spark: The titular character of the indie film Ruby Sparks.
- Ruby: A deceptive demon in the cult classic series Supernatural.
FAQs About the Name Ruby
There is always more to uncover about this vibrant name. Here are the answers to the most common questions parents ask.
What Is the Personality of the Name Ruby?
The name “Ruby” often makes people think of sassy, bubbly, romantic, optimistic, and outgoing individuals. It could describe someone beautiful or cute, but it almost always describes someone with a lot of spirit. As a gemstone-themed name, it points to the person having inner beauty.
What Does Ruby Mean Spiritually?
As a jewel-themed name, Ruby has a lot of spiritual power. It could bring extra creativity, energy, and compassion to your life, and you may be exceptionally loyal to those you care about.
Most of all, being a Ruby means you are a protector. You have a lot of spiritual wisdom and great strength against psychic attacks. You can attribute this to the fact that ruby is the third hardest known gemstone, and people have mined it for centuries for its tremendous beauty and royal significance.
What Does Ruby Mean in Hebrew?
The gem ruby has the Hebrew meaning of “Odem,” derived from the Latin word “rebrum,” as discussed above.
Jewish people associate the Ruby stone with the red stone worn on the Hoshen breastplate, which the high priest of the ancient Israelites wore as a ceremonial garment.
Is Ruby considered an old fashioned name?
Yes, Ruby is technically an old-fashioned name, but in the best way possible. It falls into the “vintage revival” category alongside names like Hazel, Arthur, and Ivy. While it was a top name in the 1910s and 20s, its current popularity proves that it feels fresh and stylish to modern parents rather than dusty or dated.
What is the birthstone associated with the name Ruby?
Unsurprisingly, the name Ruby is directly tied to the birthstone for July. The ruby gemstone is known as the “King of Gems” and symbolizes love, health, and wisdom. This makes the name an especially poignant choice for a baby girl born in the middle of summer.
Does the name Ruby appear in the Bible?
The name Ruby is not used as a character name in the Bible. However, the gemstone itself is mentioned several times in scripture, usually to describe something of immense value. For example, Proverbs 31:10 states that a virtuous woman’s price is “far above rubies,” associating the name with high worth and moral character.
Is Ruby a rare name in 2025?
No, Ruby is not considered a rare name in 2025. It is a firmly established favorite in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. If you are looking for a unique, unheard-of name, Ruby might be too popular for you. However, if you want a recognizable classic that everyone knows how to spell and pronounce, it is a perfect choice.
What symbolism is associated with the ruby gemstone?
Beyond the color red, the ruby gemstone symbolizes passion, protection, and prosperity. Ancient folklore suggested that rubies generated an internal flame that could not be extinguished, making the name a powerful symbol of resilience and enduring energy for a child.
