MallowbyNames

Rin

rin · Of uncertain origin; possibly a Japanese name meaning 'dignified' or 'cold', or a short form of names ending in -rin such as Katherine or Erin.

2025 rank (girls)
#3,577
Babies named in 2025
42
Peak popularity
2025
2025 frequency
1 in 38,268 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2002

Rising since 2002, #3,577 for girls today.

Popularity of Rin since 1983

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

1428421990200020102020Most births 2025GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1980s120
1990s00
2000s430
2010s16229
2020s20268

Meaning & origin

Rin is a name of multiple possible origins, reflecting global naming trends. In the United States, it has been recorded since 1983 and has been climbing in popularity, reaching its peak rank of 3,577 in 2025. Currently, about 1 in 38,268 newborns are named Rin, a number that has increased steadily since the early 2000s. The name is most commonly given to girls and is especially popular in California and Texas. Its brevity and cross-cultural appeal contribute to its modern rise, though its etymology remains debated. This summary reflects the name's trajectory and current standing as a distinctive choice for families seeking a short, international name.

The name Rin has multiple potential origins. In Japanese, it can be written with various kanji, one common meaning being 'dignified' (凛) or 'cold' (凛). It is also used as a short form of Western names like Katherine (via Katrin) or Erin. As a given name in English-speaking countries, it has been in occasional use since the 1980s, possibly influenced by Japanese culture or as a modern coinage.

Where Rin is most popular

Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Sibling names for Rin

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

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

R is for Rin, our favorite little girl.

R is for Rin…”

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

Make Rin's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Rin mean?
Rin is of uncertain origin. It may be a Japanese name meaning 'dignified' or 'cold', or a short form of names like Katherine or Erin.
How popular is the name Rin?
In 2025, Rin ranked 3,577th in the United States, with about 1 in 38,268 newborn girls given the name. It has been rising in popularity since 2002.
Is Rin a boy or girl name?
Rin is most often used for girls in the United States, though it can be unisex in other cultures.