All about the name

Reid

Male

« Reid is a Scottish surname-turned-first-name, originally given to people with red hair, derived from the Gaelic 'Raghallach'. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Reid is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the surname which was an Anglicized form of the Gaelic 'Raghallach', meaning "red-haired". The name Reid is believed to have been originally bestowed upon people with red hair, as was common in medieval Scotland. The first recorded use of the name Reid as a given name is thought to be in the late 18th century. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that Reid began to gain popularity as a boys' name in English-speaking countries. Today, Reid is often used as both a boys' and girls' name, although it remains more popular for males. Reid has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history, including American politician Harry Reid and Canadian ice hockey player Ryan Reid. In popular culture, the name Reid has been used in various movies, TV shows, and books, further contributing to its familiarity and appeal. Overall, Reid is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history and a compelling origin story. It's easy to see why this name continues to be chosen by parents today, as it offers a perfect blend of uniqueness and approachability.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Reid since 1880

Total births
38,515
Total since 1880
Peak year
2014
1,432 births
in 2023
1,058
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-2%
vs previous 5 years