Retta is a name of Italian origin, derived from the word "rettile," which means "lizard" or "reptile." It is believed to have been given as a nickname to people who were considered cunning, sly, or sneaky, much like a lizard might be perceived.
The name Retta first appeared in medieval Italy and was used primarily for males. However, over time, it has become more commonly associated with females due to its popularity among celebrities such as actress Retta from the TV show "Parks and Recreation."
Despite its origins, the name Retta does not necessarily have any specific meaning or symbolism attached to it beyond its Italian roots. It is simply a unique name that has been used throughout history in various cultures.
In terms of history, there are no significant historical figures named Retta who stand out as notable exceptions. However, this does not diminish the charm and uniqueness of the name itself.
Today, Retta remains a relatively uncommon name but continues to be chosen by parents looking for something distinctive and memorable for their children. It is often associated with creativity and individuality due to its unconventional sound and origins. Overall, Retta is a fascinating name with a rich history that makes it stand out among other names of Italian origin.
Between 1880 and 2023, the name Retta was given to babies born in the United States a total of 3,385 times over the course of 147 years.
The name's popularity fluctuated significantly over this period. The highest number of births registered with the name Retta occurred in 1922, with 60 newborns sharing the moniker. Conversely, there were periods when the name barely appeared: for instance, only five births were recorded in both 1983 and 2020.
Analyzing the data year by year reveals trends in popularity:
* In the late 19th century, Retta was moderately popular, with around 25-30 births per year.
* The early 20th century saw a peak in popularity, with over 40 births annually between 1914 and 1928, reaching its zenith in 1922.
* After 1928, the name's popularity declined steadily. By the late 1930s, fewer than 50 babies were named Retta each year.
* This downward trend continued into the mid-20th century, with fewer than 40 births per year from 1950 onwards.
* Since the 1980s, Retta has become quite rare, with fewer than ten births per year, and often fewer than five.
Overall, while Retta was once a popular name in the United States, its popularity has waned significantly over time. Despite this decline, it remains present in the annals of American nomenclature.