Ruth

Many would consider Ruth to be an old fashioned named reserved for the elderly, however it retains an air of elegance, grace and maturity that many other names lack.

Detailed Meaning

The name Ruth is derived from the Hebrew meaning ‘companion’ or ‘friend.’ Also meaning ‘compassion’ in English, the name is borne by King David’s great grandmother, and the subject of the Book of Ruth. The name’s English connection to ‘compassion’ lead to its adoption by the Puritans after the Reformation.

Famous People With This Name

Ruth Bader Ginsberg is an American Supreme Court Justice, Ruth Wilson is a British actress known for her roles in “Luther” and “The Affair,” and Ruth Negga is an Ethiopian-Irish actress who is best known for her role in the film,”Loving.”

Possible Nicknames

One possible nick name for Ruth is Ruthie/Ruthy.

Related Names

Ruth can also be spelled Rooth and Ruthe.

Stories Featuring This Name

Ruth “Rudi” Smith was a character on the sitcom “Gavin & Stacey,” played by Sheridan Smith. Ruth DeWitt Bukater was the antagonist in the 1997 film, “Titanic.” Ruth Jamison is a character in the classic Southern American novel, “Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café,” written by Fannie Flagg and turned into a film in 1991.