Rita is a female given name of Italian origin, derived from the Latin word "ritta," which means "pearl." It is also associated with the Italian word "rita," meaning "royal" or "regal." The name Rita has been popular throughout Europe for centuries and has been used in various forms across different cultures.
In Italian culture, Rita is often associated with Saint Rita of Cascia, a 15th-century Augustinian nun who was renowned for her charity and miracles. She is the patron saint of impossible cases and is often invoked by those seeking divine intervention in difficult situations. The name Rita may also have been popularized by the movie "Rita Hayworth," starring the famous actress of the same name.
The name Rita has several variations, including Rhita, Ritta, and Retta. It can also be spelled with an accent over the first letter, as in Říta or Řita. The name Rita is traditionally given to girls born under the astrological sign of Gemini (May 21 - June 20).
Overall, Rita is a classic and timeless name with a strong connection to Italian culture and history. It has been embraced by many families throughout the years due to its meaning and rich heritage.
The name Rita has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1880 and 1959, the number of annual births with the name Rita fluctuated significantly, ranging from a low of 19 births in 1880 to a high of 6653 births in 1949.
However, starting from the 1960s, there was a notable decline in the popularity of the name Rita. The highest number of births with this name during this decade was 2688 in 1966, and it continued to decrease throughout the subsequent decades. In the 1970s, the number of annual births with the name Rita dropped below 1000, reaching a low of 592 births in 1983.
The trend of decreasing popularity persisted into the late 20th century and early 21st century. By the year 2000, the number of annual births with the name Rita had fallen below 300, and it continued to decline further, reaching a low of 150 births in 2021.
Overall, the total number of births with the name Rita in the United States from 1880 to 2023 is 284,112. Despite its initial popularity, the name Rita has seen a significant decrease in usage over time.