Ruth

Ruth is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin, derived from the word Re'uth, meaning "friend," "compassion," or "fellowship." It has been used in English-speaking countries since at least the 18th century and remained common through the mid-20th century, with usage continuing in various cultures. Variants and diminutives include Ruthie and Ruthann, with related forms in other languages.

In the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament, Ruth is a Moabite woman who becomes Naomi’s daughter-in-law, pledges loyalty to Naomi, and converts to the Israelite faith. She marries Boaz and is the great-grandmother of King David, making her an ancestral figure in the Davidic line. The Book of Ruth emphasizes themes of loyalty, kindness, and inclusion.

Notable people named Ruth include Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court (1933–2020); Dr. Ruth Westheimer, sex therapist and media personality (born 1928); Ruth Rendell, British crime novelist (1930–2015); Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, novelist and screenwriter (1927–2013); and Ruth Gordon, actress and writer (1896–1985). These figures reflect the name’s broad usage across regions and professions.

The name Ruth remains recognizable in contemporary culture largely due to its biblical origins and its long-standing presence in literature, media, and public life. It continues to be used in various countries, though its popularity has declined compared with its mid-20th-century peak.