Declining since 1985, #3,949 for boys today.
Popularity of Rufus since 1880
Babies named Rufus per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1922, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Rufus's real moment was 1880.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 1,283 |
| 1890s | 1,298 |
| 1900s | 1,552 |
| 1910s | 4,901 |
| 1920s | 6,749 |
| 1930s | 4,777 |
| 1940s | 4,667 |
| 1950s | 4,155 |
| 1960s | 2,625 |
| 1970s | 1,570 |
| 1980s | 1,120 |
| 1990s | 558 |
| 2000s | 328 |
| 2010s | 340 |
| 2020s | 151 |
Meaning & origin
Rufus has enjoyed periodic favor, especially in the late 19th century. Its peak year was 1880, ranking 3949 in 2025, a decline from earlier decades. The trajectory shows a falling trend since 1985, though its rarity gives it a distinctive, old-fashioned charm. The top state for Rufus in recent years is Washington, and it was first recorded in U.S. data in 1880, reflecting its earliest documented use in America.
Rufus derives from the Latin word rufus, meaning "red" or "reddish." In ancient Rome it was used as a cognomen for someone with red hair. The name appears in the New Testament as a disciple in the Book of Romans, and it was occasionally used among early Christians. In English-speaking countries, it was revived in the 18th century, particularly in the United States, where it saw modest use through the 19th century.
Where Rufus is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Rufus
Names that share Rufus's style, for a brother or sister.
