Is Robin a boy's name or a girl's name?

Robin is a unisex name. In the United States, it peaked for girls in the mid-20th century, but it remains a common masculine name in the UK and Europe.

Is Robyn the female spelling of Robin?

While Robin is used for both, the spelling 'Robyn' is almost exclusively used as a feminine variation.

What is the relationship between Robin and Robert?

Robin began as a diminutive form of Robert, using the French suffix '-in' to denote affection or smaller size.

Robin

/RAH-bin/

Germanic / Old French

Robin is a Germanic / Old French baby name pronounced /RAH-bin/. A bright and shining individual whose name is famously associated with the red-breasted songbird.

Meaning of Robin

A bright and shining individual whose name is famously associated with the red-breasted songbird.

The name originated as a medieval diminutive of Robert, derived from the Germanic elements 'hrod' meaning fame and 'beraht' meaning bright. While originally a masculine nickname, it eventually evolved into a standalone name for both sexes, further influenced by the English word for the bird species. Its association with the bird solidified in the 19th and 20th centuries, contributing to its popularity as a nature name.

Origin: Germanic / Old French
Pronunciation: /RAH-bin/

Cultural background

It is widely used across English-speaking countries, the Netherlands, and France, often perceived as a classic yet friendly name.

Variations & nicknames

Robyn
Robbie
Robine
Robina
Robbyn
Rob

Famous people named Robin

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

Robin Williams
Academy Award-winning actor and legendary stand-up comedian
Film · 20th-21st Century
Robin Hood
Legendary heroic outlaw of English folklore
Folklore · Medieval
Robin Wright
Acclaimed American actress and director
Film · 21st Century
Robin Gibb
Singer, songwriter, and member of the Bee Gees
Music · 20th Century
Robin van Persie
Professional football player and top scorer
Sport · 21st Century
Robin Roberts
Broadcaster and anchor of Good Morning America
Journalism · 21st Century

Frequently asked about Robin

Is Robin a boy's name or a girl's name?: Robin is a unisex name. In the United States, it peaked for girls in the mid-20th century, but it remains a common masculine name in the UK and Europe.
Is Robyn the female spelling of Robin?: While Robin is used for both, the spelling 'Robyn' is almost exclusively used as a feminine variation.
What is the relationship between Robin and Robert?: Robin began as a diminutive form of Robert, using the French suffix '-in' to denote affection or smaller size.

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