Meaning, origin, history
Reba is a unique and uncommon feminine given name of Hebrew origin. The name Reba means "fourth" in Hebrew, and it is believed to have been used as a name for girls born as the fourth child in their family. This practice was common among certain Jewish communities, where children were often named after their ordinal position in the family.
The use of the name Reba can be traced back to ancient times, with some sources suggesting that it was already in use during biblical times. However, there is no definitive evidence of its usage until the Middle Ages, when it began to appear more frequently in Jewish communities across Europe and North Africa.
Despite its Hebrew origins, Reba has also been used as a given name by non-Jewish families, particularly in the United States. Today, Reba remains a rare name, but it continues to be used occasionally, especially among families with Jewish roots or those who are drawn to its unique sound and meaning.
In popular culture, the most notable figure associated with the name Reba is country music singer Reba McEntire, born as Reba Nell McEntire in 1955. Although her first name is often simply pronounced as "Ree-buh," it is still written as Reba, which has helped to keep the name in the public eye despite its rarity.
In summary, Reba is a distinctive feminine given name with Hebrew origins and the meaning of "fourth." While not widely used today, this unique name has a rich history dating back centuries and continues to be chosen by families drawn to its sound and significance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Reba since 1880
Total births
60
Total since 1880
Peak year
1926
8 births
in 1939
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years