Declining since 1985, #2,778 for girls today.
Popularity of Roberta since 1880
Babies named Roberta per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1953, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Roberta's real moment was 1937.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 541 |
| 1890s | 1,120 |
| 1900s | 2,372 |
| 1910s | 10,370 |
| 1920s | 18,219 |
| 1930s | 27,731 |
| 1940s | 38,051 |
| 1950s | 37,916 |
| 1960s | 21,101 |
| 1970s | 8,094 |
| 1980s | 3,281 |
| 1990s | 1,299 |
| 2000s | 548 |
| 2010s | 564 |
| 2020s | 341 |
Meaning & origin
Roberta is a feminine name rooted in the Germanic tradition, the counterpart of the enduring classic Robert. Its use in English-speaking countries grew notably after the 19th century, with a surge in popularity in the 1930s, when it reached its peak rank in 1937. Since 1985, however, its usage has steadily declined, and in 2025 it was given to roughly 1 in 26,349 newborns. Though less common today, Roberta retains a vintage charm, especially in states like Arizona, Texas, and California, where it appears most frequently. The name evokes a mid-century sensibility yet remains a recognizable, straightforward choice for parents seeking a traditional feminine form of Robert.
Roberta is the feminine form of Robert, which derives from the Old High German Hrodberht, composed of hrod 'fame' and beraht 'bright'. The name entered English via the Norman Conquest and gained popularity in the 19th century, especially after Sir Walter Scott used it for a character in his poem 'Rokeby' (1813). Roberta saw its peak usage in the 1930s.
Where Roberta 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: Bert, Bertie, Bobbi, Bobbie, Bobby, Robbie, Robin, Rose
Variants: Robertina, Roberteen
Sibling names for Roberta
Names that share Roberta's style, for a brother or sister.
