Robin (name)
Robin Hood (statue in Nottingham) | |
| Pronunciation | /ˈrɒbɪn/ |
|---|---|
| Gender | Unisex (Originally only male) |
| Origin | |
| Word/name | France, Germany |
| Meaning | "Fame-bright", diminutive |
| Other names | |
| Related names | Robinson, Robbin, Robine, Roben, Robyn, Robbyn, Robben, Robert |
Robin is a unisex given name and a surname. It was originally a diminutive masculine given name or nickname of Robert, derived from the prefix Ro- (hrod, Old Germanic, meaning "fame" and berht, meaning "bright"), and the suffix -in (Old French diminutive). There are several common variations, including Robyn, Robbin, Robine, Robyne, Robynne, and Robbyn. Robin has its origin in France and is also a very common surname in France. Robin is occasionally found as a surname in English-speaking countries. Common nicknames are Rob, Robbie or Bobby.
In Europe, although it is sometimes regarded as a feminine name, it is generally given to boys. In 2014, 88% of babies named Robin in England were boys. In the United States, it used to be more popular as a feminine name. Around its peak popularity in 1956, it was the 29th most popular name for girls and the 143rd most popular name for boys. The gender gap has narrowed as the name has become generally less popular.