A 1910s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Rea since 1892
Babies named Rea per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1958, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Rea's real moment was 1910.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 21 | 0 |
| 1900s | 57 | 0 |
| 1910s | 140 | 38 |
| 1920s | 183 | 66 |
| 1930s | 170 | 39 |
| 1940s | 160 | 30 |
| 1950s | 208 | 17 |
| 1960s | 137 | 0 |
| 1970s | 129 | 0 |
| 1980s | 106 | 0 |
| 1990s | 129 | 0 |
| 2000s | 155 | 0 |
| 2010s | 140 | 0 |
| 2020s | 138 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Rea is a short, simple name that has been in use in the United States since at least 1892. It peaked in popularity in 1910, but fell out of common use until a resurgence that began around 1989. As of 2025, it ranks 5,238th with a one-in-66,969 birth rate. The name was most popular in Connecticut and New York during its early peak. Though its exact etymology is debated, Rea likely originated as a diminutive or variant of longer names like Rebecca or Regina. Its recent revival fits the trend of vintage short names returning to fashion.
Rea is likely a short form or variant of longer names such as Rebecca (of Hebrew origin, meaning 'to bind') or Regina (Latin for 'queen'), or it may have arisen independently as a respelling of the masculine name Ray. Its earliest recorded use in the United States dates to 1892, and it saw modest popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1910s. The name has recently experienced a revival, rising in use since 1989.
Where Rea is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Rea
Names that share Rea's style, for a brother or sister.
