Rising since 2008, #1,778 for boys today.
Popularity of Rune since 2001
Babies named Rune per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 2000s | 0 | 129 |
| 2010s | 39 | 216 |
| 2020s | 109 | 368 |
Meaning & origin
Rune is a short, strong name with deep roots in Old Norse culture. Its meaning, tied to the runic alphabet and the concept of secret knowledge, gives it a mystical edge. In the United States, Rune has been rising in popularity since 2008, with a rank of 1,778 in 2025, its peak year. It was first recorded in the U.S. in 2001 and is most popular in states like Oklahoma, Washington, and Virginia. With its distinctive sound and historical weight, Rune offers a unique alternative to more common Scandinavian imports.
From Old Norse rún, meaning 'secret' or 'mystery', referring to the runic letters used by ancient Germanic peoples. The name was historically used in Scandinavia as a short form of names containing the element 'rún', such as Rúnólfur. In modern times, it gained popularity as a given name in its own right, especially in Nordic countries.
Where Rune is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Rune
Names that share Rune's style, for a brother or sister.
