Reeta is a Finnish female given name, originating as a short form of Margaret (Finnish Margareeta). Like its cognate Swedish Greta, it has become an independent name in its own right. Etymology The name traces back through Latin Margarita to Greek μαργαρίτης (margarites), meaning "pearl." The Greek word itself may have been borrowed from an Indo-Iranian language. The name gained popularity due to Saint Margaret, a 4th-century martyr in Antioch and patron saint of expectant mothers, who was said to have been swallowed by a dragon and later freed—a tale often depicted in medieval art. Notable Bearers Though Finnish in usage, the name connects to the wide cultural legacy of Margaret. Notable historic figures bearing the root name include Queen Margaret I of Denmark (14th century), who unified Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. In modern times, the English-speaking world produced Margaret Mitchell (author of Gone with the Wind), Margaret Atwood (Canadian novelist), Margaret Mead (American anthropologist), and Margaret Thatcher (British prime minister). Cultural Significance In Finland, short forms like Reeta (and its variant Erreetta) function as given names but also serve as affectionate versions of the longer classical name. Variant forms include Reetta. This practice parallels the use of Retha in English. According to Finnish naming statistics (August 2025), Reeta ranks as the 387th most common female given name, shared by about 1,090 women, with an additional 722 using it as a middle name. Meaning: pearl Origin: Finnish short form of Margaret, ultimately Greek Type: First name Usage regions: Finland