MallowbyNames

Reata

ree-AH-tuh · Of uncertain origin; possibly a variant of Rita or a modern coinage inspired by the Western term 'reata' (Spanish for a rope or lasso).

2025 rank (girls)
#13,208
Babies named in 2025
6
Peak popularity
2013
2025 frequency
1 in 267,878 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2016

Declining since 2016, #13,208 for girls today.

Popularity of Reata since 1933

Babies named Reata per year in U.S. Social Security records.

591419602000Most births 2013Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1930s13
1940s5
1950s0
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s16
2010s87
2020s40

Meaning & origin

Reata is a distinctive name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1933, but it remains extremely uncommon. Its peak usage occurred in 2013, when it reached its highest rank before beginning a steady decline. By 2025, the name's rarity is reflected in a 1 in 267,878 incidence among female births. Despite its ambiguous origins, Reata has a gentle, melodic sound with potential connections to Spanish heritage. Its trajectory shows a consistent fall since 2016, suggesting it has never gained widespread mainstream appeal. There are no recorded top states for Reata, underscoring its scattered usage nationwide.

Reata first appears in U.S. birth records in 1933, but its exact derivation is unclear. It may be a respelling of Rita (a short form of Margarita) or an adoption of the Spanish word 'reata,' referring to a rope or lasso, popularized by Western culture. No strong evidence links it to any ancient language.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Rea, Ria

Sibling names for Reata

Names that share Reata's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Rita, Mira, Leona, Tessa, Alma

Brothers: Rex, Cole, Leo, Jace, Roy

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

R is for Reata, our favorite little girl.

R is for Reata…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Reata's letter becomes Reata's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Reata's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Reata mean?
The meaning of Reata is uncertain; it may be a variant of Rita or derived from the Spanish word for lasso.
How popular is the name Reata?
Reata is very rare. In 2025, it ranked 13,208 with about 1 in roughly 268,000 female births, and its peak popularity was in 2013.
Is Reata a boy or girl name?
Reata is considered a girl's name, as reflected in its use in U.S. data.