Rita
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What does the baby name Rita mean? Learn about what Rita means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Rita - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Rita
- R-I-T-A, is a 4-letter female given name.
- Pronunciation of Rita
- REE-tÉ™
- Meaning of Rita
- Pearl, a pearl.
- Origin of Rita
- The name 'Rita' is a female name with origins in multiple languages, including Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese. It is believed to be a diminutive form of the name Margarita, which is derived from the Latin word 'margarita', meaning 'pearl'. The earliest known use of the name 'Rita' can be traced back to medieval Italy, where it gained popularity as a given name.
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- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Rita
- Daisy
- Gerta
- Grere
- Gret
- Greta
- Gretal
- Gretchen
- Grete
- Gretel
- Grethel
- Grethen
- Grette
- Madge
- Madlinka
- Madsche
- Mag
- Maggie
- Maharite
- Mahoul
- Maiga
- Mairead
- Mairghread
- Mairgret
- Maisie
- Maizie
- Maj
- Malgerita
- Malgozata
- Mamie
- Maragreta
- Maret
- Maretta
- Marga
- Margalit
- Margaret
- Margarida
- Margarita
- Marge
- Margen
- Margery
- Margisia
- Margo
- Margot
- Margruta
- Marguerite
- Marjorie
- Marketa
- Markita
- Meg
- Megan
- Meggie
- Meggy
- Metje
- Metta
- Mette
- Meyta
- Peg
- Pegeen
- Peggy
- Reata
- Reet
- Reita
- Reta
- Rheta
- Rhetta
- Riet
- Rieta
- Ritta
- Popularity of Rita
- The popularity of the name 'Rita' has varied over time. In the early 20th century, it experienced a notable spike in usage, particularly in the United States. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the influence of the actress 'Rita' Hayworth, who captivated audiences with her beauty and talent during the Golden Age of Hollywood. However, the name 's popularity has waned in recent decades, and it is now considered less common.
- Rita currently has 265 likes, and is in the top 3% of liked girl's names. The name Tabitha is slightly more popular than Rita.
Etymology of Rita
The etymology of the name 'Rita' is fascinating. As mentioned earlier, it is derived from the Latin word 'margarita', which means 'pearl'. The association with pearls is significant, as pearls are often regarded as symbols of purity, beauty, and wisdom. In various cultures, pearls have been highly valued and worn as adornments by royalty and nobility. The name 'Rita', therefore, carries connotations of elegance and refinement.
Cultural Significance of Rita
While the name 'Rita' does not have a specific cultural significance, it is widely used in Spanish-speaking countries, such as Spain, Mexico, and Argentina. In these cultures, the name is often associated with strong, independent women who possess grace and charm. Additionally, the name 'Rita' has been adopted by various religious communities, with Saint 'Rita' of Cascia being a prominent figure. Saint 'Rita' is revered as the patron saint of impossible causes, and her name is often chosen by parents who seek her intercession for their children.