Declining since 2019, #14,942 for girls today.
Popularity of Rakeb since 2005
Babies named Rakeb per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 20 |
| 2010s | 115 |
| 2020s | 44 |
Meaning & origin
Rakeb is a rare Ethiopian name that entered U.S. birth records in 2005. It reached its highest rank of 14,942 in 2020, when it was given to approximately 1 in 130,000 babies, but has since fallen in usage. The name's Amharic origins tie it to the concept of riding or thunder, giving it a strong, natural feel. Despite its rarity, Rakeb has maintained steady, if modest, use among families with Ethiopian heritage, reflecting a broader appreciation for names with distinct cultural resonance. Its decline in the past several years may align with shifting trends in the naming of the Ethiopian diaspora.
Rakeb is an Ethiopian name of Amharic origin. It is derived from the Amharic verb 'rakaba', meaning 'to ride' or 'to mount', particularly a horse. Alternatively, some sources link it to the Ge'ez word 'rakb', meaning 'thunderbolt' or 'lightning'. The name is used for both boys and girls in Ethiopia, though it is more common for girls in recent years.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Raki, Keb
Variants: Rakeeb
Sibling names for Rakeb
Names that share Rakeb's style, for a brother or sister.
