Ruby Baby Name: Meaning, Origin, Middle Name Pairings & More

Ruby is one of those rare names that's almost as popular now as it was over a century ago. While it's made its way up and down the list of the top baby names in the United States, it's stayed within the top 400. Many new parents associate it with the jewel and color of the same name, which is where the moniker originated. The ruby is one of the most beloved and sought-after gemstones in the world.

Meaning of the name Ruby:

Latin: Red gemstone

Origin of the name Ruby:

The word ruby is derived from the Latin word “rubeus,” which means red.

Symbolism of the name Ruby:

Many cultures have valued the ruby gemstone as a symbol of health, prosperity, life and love throughout history. They were especially important to European royalty through the years. Today, it's the birthstone for the month of July.

Style of the name Ruby:

Classic

Gender of the name Ruby:

Ruby is a girl's name.

Pronunciation of the name Ruby:

ROO-bee

Number of syllables in the name Ruby:

Two

Emotion evoked from the name Ruby:

The baby name Ruby evokes the image of a sultry, sassy girl who is ready for an adventure.

Alternative spellings for the name Ruby:

• Rubie 
• Rubee
• Rubey
• Rubi

Nicknames for the name Ruby:

• Rue
• Bee
• Bea
• Rube

Popularity of the name Ruby:

Ruby has been one of the most popular baby girl names in the United States for well over a century. In the year 1900, it ranked at number 51, and as of 2020, it ranked at number 74.

Related names for the name Ruby:

• Violet 
• Jade 
• Hazel 
• Rose 
• Pearl 
• Scarlett 

Great middle names for Ruby and their meanings:

• Katherine (pure)
• Alexandra (defend and protect)
• Grace (God's grace)
• Hannah (favor, grace)
• Anne (favor, grace)
• Isabelle (God's promise)
• Margaret (pearl)
• Kate (pure)
• Violet (purple flower)

Famous people with the name Ruby:

• Ruby Hartley (actress)
• Ruby Bridges (activist)
• Ruby Rose (actress)
• Ruby Dandridge (actress)
• Ruby Wax (comedian)

Rubys in popular culture:

• Ruby (character from the animated show “Max and Ruby”)
• Ruby Dobbs (character from the soap opera “Coronation Street”)
• Ruby the Red Fairy (character in the “Rainbow Magic” book series)
• Ruby Baptiste (character from the TV show “Lovecraft Country”)
• Ruby (character in the animated show “Trollz”)
• Ruby Thewes (character in the book and movie “Cold Mountain”)