Pearl
Originally a short form of the Italian name Margherita, Rita has been used as a standalone name since the 19th century. It is derived from the Greek word 'margarites', referring to a pearl. The name gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century due to Hollywood influence.
About 174 girls were named Rita in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Iconic American actress and dancer of the 1940s
EGOT-winning Puerto Rican actress and singer
British singer and songwriter
Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and former U.S. Poet Laureate
Gossip journalist for the Daily Prophet · Harry Potter series
The mother of the Loud family · The Loud House
Nobel Prize-winning neurobiologist
American actress, singer, and producer
The same feel as Rita — far less common.
Hidden gems that stand out.
