Robin (name)

Robin
PronunciationUK English /ˈrɒb.ɪn/, American English /ˈrɑb.ɪn/
GenderUnisex (Originally only male)
Origin
Word/nameFrance, Germany
Meaning"Fame-bright", diminutive
Other names
Related namesRobinson, Robbin, Robine, Roben, Robyn, Robbyn, Robben, Robert
[1]

Robin is a unisex given name and a surname. It was originally a diminutive masculine given name or nickname of Robert, derived from the prefix Ro- (hrod, Old Germanic, meaning "fame" and berht, meaning "bright"), and the suffix -in (Old French diminutive). There are several common variations, including Robyn, Robbin, Robine, Robyne, Robynne, and Robbyn.[2] Robin has its origin in France and is also a very common surname in France. Robin is occasionally found as a surname in English-speaking countries. Common nicknames are Rob, Robbie or Bobby.[1]

In Europe, although it is sometimes regarded as a feminine name, it is generally given to boys. In 2014, 88% of babies named Robin in England were boys.[3] In the United States, it used to be more popular as a feminine name. Around its peak popularity in 1956, it was the 29th most popular name for girls and the 143rd most popular name for boys.[2] The gender gap has narrowed as the name has become generally less popular.

Gender distribution of babies named Robin in the United States, according to Social Security[2]

Given name

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Surname

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b Robin - Origin and Meaning of the name Robin at BabyNames.com
  2. ^ a b c "Popular Baby Names". Social Security. Social Security Administration.
  3. ^ Office of National Statistics, UK