The name Ridge is of English origin and it means "mountain slope" or "edge of a hill." It comes from the Old English word "hreod," which means hill or ridge.
The use of Ridge as a given name is relatively modern, with its popularity rising in recent years. However, the name Ridge has been used as a surname for centuries, originating from place names where there was a prominent ridge or hill.
In literature and popular culture, Ridge has been used as a character name, which may have contributed to its growing recognition as a given name. For instance, Ridge Lawrence is a main character in the young adult novel series "The Mortal Instruments" by Cassandra Clare.
Despite its recent rise in popularity, Ridge remains a unique and distinctive name that stands out among more common choices. Its meaning and origin give it a strong and robust feel, reflecting its connection to nature and the outdoors.
In terms of pronunciation, Ridge is typically pronounced as /riдж/, with the stress on the first syllable. It rhymes with words such as hide, tide, and stride.
Overall, Ridge is an uncommon yet meaningful name that may appeal to parents looking for a strong and distinctive name for their child. Its connection to nature and its unique sound make it a memorable choice.
The name Ridge experienced a significant increase in popularity over time, with a total of 6758 babies named Ridge born between 1948 and 2023. While only 11 births were recorded in 1948, the number began to rise notably from the late 1980s onwards, reaching a peak in recent years: 598 births in 2023 alone. This trend suggests that Ridge has become increasingly favored as a baby boy's name in contemporary times.