Holding steady.
Popularity of Reta since 1880
Babies named Reta per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1946, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Reta's real moment was 1896.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 50 |
| 1890s | 236 |
| 1900s | 360 |
| 1910s | 989 |
| 1920s | 1,511 |
| 1930s | 1,651 |
| 1940s | 1,564 |
| 1950s | 1,450 |
| 1960s | 495 |
| 1970s | 177 |
| 1980s | 95 |
| 1990s | 38 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Reta is a name that experienced its greatest popularity in the late 19th century, reaching a peak in 1896. Since then, its usage has declined steadily, and it has not appeared in the top 1000 names in recent decades. The name is most likely a variant of Rita or a short form of Margherita, tying it to the classic meaning of 'pearl'. Although its exact etymology is debated, Reta fits into a category of short, sweet names popular in the 1890s. Its stability over time suggests it has never been a flash-in-the-pan trend, but rather a quiet choice that has faded into obscurity. For parents seeking a vintage name with a soft sound, Reta offers a rare and understated option.
Reta likely originated as a diminutive or variant of Margherita, the Italian form of Margaret, meaning 'pearl'. Alternatively, it may be a modern coinage derived from Rita, itself a short form of Margarita. The name saw modest use in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United States and parts of Europe.
Where Reta 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
Sibling names for Reta
Names that share Reta's style, for a brother or sister.
