Reeva is a captivating first name of South African origin, derived from the Afrikaans word 'reëf', which translates to 'reef'. This unique name gained global recognition due to its association with the accomplished sprinter and model, Reeva Steenkamp, who competed in track and field events. The name Reeva has a pleasing rhythm and carries a distinctively South African charm, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Reeva experienced a significant surge in popularity from the late 2010s onwards, with over 25 births recorded annually since 2016, reaching a peak of 47 births in 2022. Before this trend, the name's usage was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 10 births per year from the early 1980s to the late 2000s. The name first appeared with notable frequency in the mid-1980s, with peaks of 18 births in 1985 and 11 births in 1989. However, it remained largely uncommon until its resurgence in popularity from around 2013 onwards. In total, over a span of approximately 110 years (from 1912 to 2023), the name Reeva has been given to 718 newborns.