Declining since 1985, #3,249 for girls today.
Popularity of Renae since 1925
Babies named Renae per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 12 |
| 1930s | 123 |
| 1940s | 434 |
| 1950s | 2,013 |
| 1960s | 3,297 |
| 1970s | 2,932 |
| 1980s | 2,352 |
| 1990s | 1,413 |
| 2000s | 809 |
| 2010s | 499 |
| 2020s | 257 |
Meaning & origin
Renae entered U.S. records in 1925 and reached its peak popularity in 1970, when it was most frequently chosen for baby girls. Since 1985, its usage has steadily declined; as of 2025, it ranks 3,249 and is given to about 1 in every 33,485 newborns. While never extremely common, Renae has shown particular regional appeal in Texas, where it appeared as a top state. The name's trajectory reflects a broader trend away from mid-20th-century French-inflected variants, yet it retains a simple elegance that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive but familiar choice. Its meaning of 'reborn' connects to early Christian naming traditions, adding a layer of historical depth.
Renae is a feminine form of René, the French variant of the Latin name Renatus, meaning 'born again.' The name Renatus was common among early Christians, referring to spiritual rebirth through baptism. In medieval France, René became popular and spread to other European countries. Renae emerged as a modern English spelling variant, particularly in the United States during the 20th century.
Where Renae is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rena, Renee, Rae
Sibling names for Renae
Names that share Renae's style, for a brother or sister.
