Rigby is a name of English origin that has a distinct and interesting history behind it. It is derived from the Old English word "hrīgbeorh," which can be translated to mean "strong boar." The name was likely given to children born in areas where wild boars were common, as it was believed that having such a strong and powerful animal as part of one's name would bring good fortune.
The name Rigby is also associated with the English surname Rigby, which has its roots in the town of Ribchester in Lancashire. The town itself is named after the River Ribble, which flows through it, and the "-by" suffix indicates that it was once a settlement or farm owned by someone called Ribbe. Over time, the name of the town became associated with the surname Rigby, which has been passed down through generations.
Rigby is not a particularly common name today, but it has been used throughout history. One notable figure with the name Rigby was Sir Richard Rigby, 1st Baronet (1627-1693), who was an English politician and member of Parliament during the reign of King Charles II.
Overall, Rigby is a unique and interesting name with a rich history behind it. While it may not be as widely known or used as some other names today, its origins in Old English mythology and association with powerful animals make it a name worth considering for those looking for something distinctive and meaningful.
The name Rigby has seen varying popularity in the United States over the past two decades, with a noticeable increase in usage since around 2012.
From 1999 to 2007, the number of babies named Rigby remained relatively low, fluctuating between 6 and 9 births per year. However, starting from 2008, there was a notable uptick in popularity, with 18 births recorded in 2009 and peaking at 32 births in 2015.
Interestingly, the years following 2015 saw a slight dip in popularity, with around 20 to 24 births per year. However, since 2019, there has been another increase in usage, with 28 births recorded both in 2019 and 2022.
In total, from 1999 to 2023, there have been 353 babies named Rigby born in the United States. While it may not be one of the most popular names, it has certainly made its mark on the baby naming landscape over the past two decades.