Meaning, origin, history
Ruffin is a unique and distinctive given name of French origin. The name is derived from the Germanic elements "hruod" meaning fame or glory, and "wini" which means friend or follower. Therefore, Ruffin translates to "famous friend" or "glorious companion".
The name Ruffin has a rich history that dates back to medieval France. It was borne by several notable individuals throughout the centuries, including Ruffin Le Picart, a French dramatist and poet of the 17th century, and Ruffin Thompson, an American athlete who played in the NFL during the early 20th century.
Despite its historic roots, Ruffin remains a rare name today. According to data from the Social Security Administration, only a handful of babies have been named Ruffin each year since records began in 1879. This rarity contributes to its unique and appealing quality.
In terms of popularity, Ruffin has never ranked among the top 1000 names for boys in the United States. However, this lack of widespread use may be part of its charm for some parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
Overall, Ruffin is an attractive and uncommon given name with a strong historical background and a meaningful meaning that makes it a standout choice for parents seeking something different for their baby boy.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Ruffin since 1880
Total births
555
Total since 1880
Peak year
1916
19 births
in 2013
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
↘
vs previous 5 years