From the strip of land
A surname-turned-given name of Germanic origin, likely derived from the Middle Low German word 'rippe', referring to a strip of land or a riverbank. In the United States, its use as a first name is almost exclusively a tribute to baseball legend Cal Ripken Jr. It carries a sporty, Americana feel while fitting the modern trend of using surnames as first names.
About 32 boys were named Ripken in 2025.
Hall of Fame baseball player known as the 'Iron Man'
Longtime Baltimore Orioles manager and coach
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
