Reeves is a surname of English origin that has been historically associated with individuals who lived near or worked at a stream or river. The name is derived from the Old English word "reaf" which means "stream" or "river." Over time, Reeves became a surname and was passed down through generations.
The meaning of the surname Reeves is closely tied to its geographical origin. As mentioned earlier, it refers to someone who lived near or worked at a stream or river. This could indicate that the original bearer of the name had a profession related to water, such as fishing or milling, or simply lived in an area where streams were prevalent.
The history of the surname Reeves can be traced back to medieval England. It is believed to have originated in the county of Yorkshire, although it has since spread to other parts of the country and beyond. The name was recorded as early as the 13th century, with references to individuals named Reve, Rafe, and Reeve appearing in historical documents.
Over time, the spelling of Reeves has varied due to factors such as regional dialects, handwriting styles, and inconsistencies in record-keeping. Some variations of the name include Reyves, Rayves, Reaves, and even Ravers. Despite these variations, all forms of the name share a common origin and meaning.
Today, Reeves is considered a relatively uncommon surname, with only an estimated 0.01% of the population bearing this name. However, it remains a proud and distinctive family name that continues to be passed down through generations.
The name Reeves has seen a steady presence among newborns in the United States over the past decade, with a total of 59 babies being given this name since 2013. The year with the highest number of Reeves births was 2021, with nine newborns sharing the name. However, the name's popularity has been relatively consistent, with six or seven births occurring annually from 2014 to 2019 and again in 2022. Interestingly, there were two peaks in recent years: one in 2015 with eight births and another in 2023 with the same number of newborns named Reeves. Despite these fluctuations, the name Reeves remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet memorable moniker for their children.