Meaning, origin, history
Rebecca is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the biblical figure Rebecca, also known as Rivkah in Hebrew. She was the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau in the Book of Genesis.
The name Rebecca means "to bind or to tie" in Hebrew. It is often associated with the idea of being a loving and devoted wife and mother, reflecting Rebecca's role in the Bible. Throughout history, this name has been popular among Jewish families and has also gained popularity among Christians due to its biblical significance.
In literature, Rebecca is the title character in Daphne du Maurier's 1938 novel "Rebecca," which was later adapted into an Academy Award-winning film by Alfred Hitchcock in 1940. The story follows the second Mrs. de Winter, who struggles to live up to the memory of the first Mrs. de Winter, Rebecca, who died tragically.
Today, Rebecca remains a popular name worldwide, ranking among the top 500 names for girls in several countries. It has also inspired numerous variations and diminutives, such as Reba, Becka, Bec, Becky, and Rebbie. Despite its many forms, the name Rebecca retains its original Hebrew meaning and biblical significance, making it a timeless and enduring choice for parents seeking a meaningful and unique name for their daughter.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Rebeccajo since 1880
Total births
6
Total since 1880
Peak year
1983
6 births
in 1983
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years