Meaning of Rebecca
From the Hebrew name (Rivqah), possibly meaning "a snare" in Hebrew, or perhaps derived from an Aramaic name.
About the Name Rebecca
Three syllables give Rebecca a lyrical, unhurried quality - it is a feminine name of Hebrew origin, with roots in the ancient texts of the Old Testament and the rich tradition of biblical names that have crossed religious and cultural boundaries to become truly international. The name means "From the Hebrew name (Rivqah)". It is a rare and considered girl name, chosen by parents who want something genuinely uncommon while remaining rooted in cultural heritage. "From the Hebrew name (Rivqah)" in Hebrew carries a weight that the English translation can only approximate. These ancient names were carried by prophets, matriarchs, and kings - they have been in continuous use for over 3,000 years, a longevity that few naming traditions can match.
The practical question of how Rebecca flows with the family surname is worth considering. The name is universally familiar across communities worldwide, easy to spell and pronounce, and carries natural authority in both formal and informal settings. If distinctiveness matters to you, Rebecca delivers: your child is unlikely to share their name with classmates, while still carrying a name with real meaning.
Sound & Flow
Rebecca is a 3-syllable name. Test it with your family surname to hear how it flows. For example: Rebecca Tan, Rebecca Lee, or Rebecca Ng.
Cultural Context
Crosses cultural boundaries easily and is used across Chinese, Eurasian, and mixed-heritage families. Works well with both English and Chinese surnames.
Name Style & Tags
Popularity Through History
See all-time rankings →Rank in California top 25 (1 = most popular). Bars represent years the name charted - Hover for rank.
Name Facts & Trivia
Famous People Named Rebecca
Prominent figures who share this name - Drawn from global culture, sports, and public life.
Want to discover names with similar fame? Try our name generator.