Rūta is a Lithuanian and Latvian feminine given name with a dual meaning. Primarily, it derives from the Lithuanian word for rue (a bitter medicinal herb, Ruta graveolens), which is considered a national symbol of Lithuania, often woven into wreaths and used in folk medicine. In parallel, Rūta is also used as the Lithuanian cognate of Ruth, taken from the Hebrew name Ruṯ, likely meaning "female friend" or "companion."Etymology and Cultural SignificanceThe rue plant (Lithuanian: rūta) holds deep cultural importance in Lithuania. It appears in traditional wedding wreaths, folk songs (dainos), and as a symbol of chastity, virginity, and resilience. The name thus carries natural and patriotic associations. As a biblical link, Ruth is the central figure of the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament, a Moabite woman who showed loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and became an ancestor of King David. After the Protestant Reformation, Ruth became popular as a Christian name in Europe, often associated with the English word ruth (compassion).Notable BearersRūta Meilutytė (born 1997), Lithuanian Olympic and world champion swimmer.Rūta Šepetys (born 1967), Lithuanian-American author of historical fiction.Ruta Gerulaitis (born 1955), American tennis player of Lithuanian descent.Rūta Bunkutė (born 1979), fitness competitor and IFBB professional bodybuilder.Rūta Ščiogolevaitė-Damijonaitienė (born 1981), Lithuanian pop singer.Rūta Skujiņa (1907–1964), Latvian poet.Rūta Vanagaitė (born 1955), Lithuanian writer and historian.Rūta Gajauskaitė (born 1989), Lithuanian figure skater.Usage and DistributionRūta is a widespread female name in Lithuania and Latvia. It belongs to a class of nature-based names along with, for example, the English Rue (a rare diminutive of Ruth) and the Slovak Rút.Meaning: Rue (herb); also cognate of Ruth (friend)Origin: Lithuanian, also from biblical HebrewType: Given name, feminineUsage Regions: Lithuania, Latvia