Ruby
Fact sheet
- Name
- Ruby
- Gender
- Girl name
- Syllables
- 2
The first name Ruby for girls translates from English as 'the ruby'. The name has its origin in the Latin word ruber, which means 'red', and can also be interpreted as 'the ruby-red'.
What does the name Ruby mean?
The girl's name Ruby, translated in English as 'the ruby', is derived from the Latin word ruber, which means 'red'. Alternatively, the name can also be translated as 'the ruby-red'. Since the fiery red ruby is the birthstone for the month of July, the name Ruby is especially suitable for girls born in July. Primarily, Ruby is common in English-speaking regions, but it is also increasingly appreciated in Germany. A well-known bearer of the name is the actress Ruby O. Fee. Similar German variants include Rubi and Rubie as well as Rubia, Rubiette, Rubina, Rubine, Rubini, Rubinia, and Rubylyn.
Where does the name Ruby come from?
The name Ruby has both Latin and English roots and means 'the ruby' or 'the ruby-red'. The English derivation comes from the Latin ruber, which means 'red', while rubinus lapis means 'red stone' or ruby. The English form ruby stands for 'ruby'. The name is widespread in various languages, including American, Australian, English, Irish, Canadian, New Zealand, Scottish, and Welsh.
How do you pronounce Ruby?
The pronunciation of Ruby is soft and two-syllable, usually pronounced as 'Ru-by' [ˈʁuːbi]. The name begins with a long U sound that conveys a certain depth. The voiced b gently connects to the second syllable, and the ending '-y' sounds bright and friendly. Ruby radiates a vibrant and modern aura – a name with clear structure and charming presence.
Popularity
In Germany, Ruby is a highly sought-after first name, currently ranking 184th on the list of the most common female first names. Its best placement was in 2022, reaching 150th place. Over the last ten years, Ruby has been chosen as a first name approximately 3,300 times, placing it 198th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 229th.
Nicknames & pet names
Luby / Roo / Ru / Rub / Rube / Rubes / Rubia / Rubilein / Rubina / Rubinchen / Rubinyks / Rubs / Rubsche / Rubylein / Ruy / Ry / Rübchen / Rüby
Similar first names
Famous people
- Beatrice Ruby Mathews Sparks (American writer)
- Ruby Archer (American writer)
- Ruby Bentall (actress)
- Ruby Braff (jazz musician from the USA)
- Ruby Bridges (American civil rights activist who was the first black child to integrate a white school in Louisiana)
- Ruby Cabernet (red wine variety)
- Ruby Commey (actress)
- Ruby Dandridge (American actress)
- Ruby Day (American actress)
- Ruby Dee (1922–2014, American actress)
- Ruby Falls (waterfall in Tennessee)
- Ruby Gloom (animated character from the show of the same name)
- Ruby Goldstein (American boxer)
- Ruby Grierson (1904–1940, British documentary filmmaker)
- Ruby Hall (born 1993, Australian actress)
- Ruby Heafner (American baseball player)
- Ruby Hunter (Australian singer)
- Ruby Jerins (American actress)
- Ruby K. Payne (American writer)
- Ruby Keeler (1909–1993, American actress and dancer)
Frequently asked questions about the name Ruby
What does the name Ruby mean?
The name Ruby means 'the ruby' or 'the ruby-red' and comes from the Latin word 'ruber', which means 'red'. This meaning is reinforced by the association with the fiery red ruby.
Is Ruby a gender-neutral name?
Ruby is primarily a girl's name, but in some cultures, it is also considered gender-neutral. However, it is most commonly used for girls.
What nicknames are there for Ruby?
There are a variety of affectionate nicknames for the name Ruby, including Luby, Roo, Ru, Rub, Rübchen, and many more. These variants offer a personal touch and can be used by family and friends.
How is Ruby pronounced?
Ruby is typically pronounced as 'Ruh-bi'. The emphasis is on the first syllable, giving the name a melodic sound.