NomOrigine Background

Last Name Ruth

What is the origin of the last name Ruth?

The last name "Ruth" has multiple possible origins and can be derived from different sources. 1. German Origin: In German, "Ruth" is a surname derived from the given name "Rüde" or "Rüdiger", which means "fame" or "renown." Over time, this given name evolved into the surname "Ruth." 2. Hebrew Origin: Another possible origin is from the Hebrew name "Ruth," which means "friend" or "companion." This name gained popularity due to the biblical character Ruth, who was a Moabite woman known for her loyalty and devotion. It is worth mentioning that surnames can have multiple origins and variations across different regions and cultures, so the exact origin of the last name "Ruth" may vary depending on the specific family and their ancestral heritage.

Unlock and discover the hidden secrets of the surname Ruth

Unlock the Secrets of Your Surname Now

For only 3.95 $, you get:

  • Full access for 7 days
  • Unlimited access to all name and surname profiles
  • High-quality Origin Certificate
  • Download: Keep a precious memory with your origins downloadable in PDF format.
  • Unlimited search
  • Ad-Free: Enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted user experience.
  • ✅ 15-Day Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee!
Unlock the Secrets of Your Surname Now
🎁 Special offer today: 3.95 $ instead of 6.95 $
⏳ This exclusive offer expires in:

✅ 15-Day Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee!

What our users say

“I discovered fascinating details about my family history. This service is amazing for tracing our roots!” - Jean D.

“This site strengthened our sense of family belonging by uncovering our origins. Highly recommended!” - Marie L.

“The information was detailed and accurate. I learned interesting facts about my ancestors. A must-have!” - Paul S.

✅ Join the 5,000+ people who have already discovered the fascinating history of their last name!

Discover my family history now

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What will I discover by exploring my last name?
Answer: You will discover the geographical origin, etymology, and unique history of your last name. You can also explore family traditions and historical events connected to it.

Question: How long does it take to access the information?
Answer: Once your payment is confirmed, access is instant. You can start exploring right away.

Question: Are the details about my last name accurate?
Answer: Our data comes from extensive research in reliable archives and historical databases. While we cannot guarantee 100% accuracy, we strive to provide the most complete and precise information possible.

Payment Information

or pay by card

By clicking 'Confirm my payment', you agree to our refund policy, accessible via this link: Refund Policy, as well as our cancellation policy accessible via this link: Cancellation Policy

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ruth

The meaning and origin of the last name Ruth

The surname Ruth has both German and Hebrew origins. In German, it is derived from the personal name "Rudolf," composed of the elements "hrod" meaning "renown" and "wulf" meaning "wolf." This surname was often given to someone displaying the characteristics associated with a wolf, such as fierceness or bravery. On the other hand, the Hebrew origin of the surname Ruth is linked to the biblical figure of Ruth, who was known for her loyalty and devotion. In Hebrew, the name Ruth means "companion" or "friend," emphasizing the importance of relationships and fidelity. Over time, the name Ruth gained popularity as a Jewish given name, and it eventually transitioned to being used as a surname. Today, individuals with the surname Ruth can be found in various parts of the world, with different branches of the family likely having different cultural and linguistic influences.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ruth

The last name Ruth is predominantly found in Western Europe and North America, particularly in Germany, the United States, and Canada. In Germany, where the name originated, it is most commonly associated with the regions of Bavaria, Saxony, and Hesse. Due to emigration patterns in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Ruth surname has also become quite prevalent in the United States. It is particularly concentrated in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, and Illinois, which witnessed significant German immigration during that time. Additionally, Canada has a notable population of individuals with the last name Ruth, primarily in Ontario and British Columbia. While the name may have a more localized distribution in Western Europe and North America, with smaller pockets in other countries, it is less prevalent in regions outside of these areas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ruth

The last name Ruth can have several variations and spellings. Some common variations include Routh, Rute, and Rooth, which may have originated from different regions or dialects over time. Additionally, the spelling of Ruth may vary based on cultural and historical factors. For instance, it may be spelled as Rüth in German to represent the umlaut sound, or as Ruut in some Scandinavian countries where double vowels are often used. Furthermore, individuals with the last name Ruth may have adapted their spelling to fit into a new country or language, resulting in further variations such as Rue, Rueth, or Ruith. It is important to note that such variations and spellings of surnames often occurred due to factors like migration, linguistic changes, and personal preferences, contributing to the rich diversity of family names.

Famous people with the last name Ruth

One of the most iconic sports figures of all time, George Herman "Babe" Ruth, stands out as a true legend in the world of baseball. Often referred to as "The Sultan of Swat," Babe Ruth revolutionized the game with his sheer power and unparalleled hitting ability. His record-breaking achievements and charismatic personality turned him into a national icon, making him synonymous with the sport. Ruth's remarkable career with the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees saw him break numerous home run records and lead his teams to multiple World Series victories. Beyond his athletic skills, Babe Ruth's larger-than-life persona and off-field antics contributed to his enduring fame. Known for his larger physique, outgoing nature, and extravagant lifestyle, Ruth became a cultural symbol, transcending the boundaries of the sports world to become an American icon. His impact on the game of baseball and popular culture will always be remembered, making him one of the most famous Ruths in history.

Genealogical research on the last name Ruth

The surname Ruth has origins in both German and Jewish heritage. In German, the name Ruth derives from the word "ruthe," meaning "rod" or "stick" and could have originated as a nickname for someone tall and thin or someone who worked as a woodcutter. Alternatively, the surname could have its roots in Jewish Ashkenazi tradition, where it is an Anglicized version of the Hebrew name "Ruth," meaning "compassion" or "friend." In this context, the name is often associated with the biblical figure Ruth, a Moabite woman who became famous for her loyalty and devotion. The surname Ruth is relatively uncommon, and as a result, genealogical research may include tracing family lines through immigration records, census data, marriage and birth certificates, as well as examining local historical records and family oral traditions to uncover the familial roots and connections of individuals with this name.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names

Rute (Last name)

surnames > rute

The surname Rute is believed to have origins in various regions, primarily in Spain and Germany. In Spain, it's thought to be a variant of the surname Ruiz, which means "son of Lui...

Rute tariku (Last name)

surnames > rute-tariku

The last name "Rute Tariku" has its origin in Ethiopia. "Rute" is a common Ethiopian first name, while "Tariku" means "His Excellency" or "His Honor" in Amharic, one of the languag...

Rutecki (Last name)

surnames > rutecki

The surname Rutecki is of Polish origin. It derives from a topographic name for someone who lived by a small wood or thicket, derived from the Slavic word "rut" meaning rowan tree ...

Ruth jane (Last name)

surnames > ruth-jane

The last name "Ruth Jane" has English origins. "Ruth" is a Hebrew name meaning "companion" or "friend," and "Jane" is a feminine form of "John," which is of Hebrew origin meaning "...

Ruth mwende (Last name)

surnames > ruth-mwende

The last name "Mwende" is of Kenyan origin, specifically from the Kamba ethnic group in Kenya. It is a common name among the Kamba people and is often used as a first name for fema...

Ruthardt (Last name)

surnames > ruthardt

The surname Ruthardt is believed to have originated from Germany, specifically the region of Thuringia. It is derived from a personal name composed of the elements "Hrod" meaning f...

Ruthe (Last name)

surnames > ruthe

The last name Ruthe is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "ruthe," meaning "rod" or "stick." It is likely an occupational surname for someone who work...

Ruthen (Last name)

surnames > ruthen

The surname Ruthen is believed to have originated from various sources based on different geographical regions. 1. Germany: It could be a variant of the German surname Ruhter, whi...

Ruthenaresh (Last name)

surnames > ruthenaresh

The last name Ruthenaresh is of Indian origin. It is derived from the combination of the name Rute, which means "truth", and Naresh, which means "king" or "lord".

Ruthie lusa (Last name)

surnames > ruthie-lusa

The last name "Lusa" is of Portuguese origin. It is derived from the word "luso," which means Portuguese. This surname may indicate someone of Portuguese descent or someone with ro...

Ruthner (Last name)

surnames > ruthner

The surname Ruthner is primarily of German origin and is derived from various place names in Germany, particularly those that end with "-ern" or "-er," which often indicate a dwell...

Rutishauser (Last name)

surnames > rutishauser

The surname Rutishauser is of Swiss-German origin. It is derived from a place name, "Rüti" or "Rütis", which can be found in various parts of Switzerland. The surname likely orig...

Rutka (Last name)

surnames > rutka

The surname "Rutka" is of Polish origin. It is derived from a topographic name for someone who lived near a stream or creek, from the Polish word "rutka," meaning "stream." This su...

Rutkowski (Last name)

surnames > rutkowski

The surname Rutkowski is of Polish origin. It is derived from a place name, specifically one that ended in "Rukt" or "Rutki," which were common names for villages in Poland. As wit...

Rutsatz (Last name)

surnames > rutsatz

The last name Rutsatz is of German origin. It is a locational surname derived from the place name Rutsatz in Germany.