Holding steady.
Popularity of Aretta since 1900
Babies named Aretta per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1923, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Aretta's real moment was 1908.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 44 |
| 1910s | 210 |
| 1920s | 272 |
| 1930s | 200 |
| 1940s | 149 |
| 1950s | 130 |
| 1960s | 93 |
| 1970s | 33 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 6 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Aretta is a rare feminine name with Italian and Greek undertones, first recorded in the United States in 1900. It saw its peak usage in 1908, but never entered the top ranks, and has remained stable in rarity since then. The name's exact etymology is debated; it may be a diminutive of Arrett or a variant of Areta, from Greek arete meaning 'virtue'. Despite its obscurity, Aretta has a melodic sound that fits alongside other early 20th-century names. No top states show significant usage, and the name has not experienced a revival. While not well-known, Aretta offers a distinctive option for parents seeking an uncommon name with a soft, feminine ending.
Aretta may be a feminine diminutive of the Italian name Arrett or a variant of Areta, which itself is derived from the Greek arete meaning 'virtue' or 'excellence'. The name saw modest use in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1900s decade, but has since become rare. Its exact derivation remains uncertain, as it could also be a creative spelling or a short form of longer names.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Etta, Rett, Ari
Sibling names for Aretta
Names that share Aretta's style, for a brother or sister.
