Reid is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the surname which was an Anglicized form of the Gaelic 'Raghallach', meaning "red-haired". The name Reid is believed to have been originally bestowed upon people with red hair, as was common in medieval Scotland.
The first recorded use of the name Reid as a given name is thought to be in the late 18th century. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that Reid began to gain popularity as a boys' name in English-speaking countries. Today, Reid is often used as both a boys' and girls' name, although it remains more popular for males.
Reid has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history, including American politician Harry Reid and Canadian ice hockey player Ryan Reid. In popular culture, the name Reid has been used in various movies, TV shows, and books, further contributing to its familiarity and appeal.
Overall, Reid is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history and a compelling origin story. It's easy to see why this name continues to be chosen by parents today, as it offers a perfect blend of uniqueness and approachability.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Reid appears to have gained significant popularity over time, with a noticeable increase in usage starting around the late 1940s and peaking between 1992 and 2008. The name's popularity seems to have stabilized since then, with birth numbers fluctuating annually but remaining consistently high.