Rue is an English feminine given name derived from the common name of the herb Ruta graveolens, a bitter medicinal plant native to the Mediterranean region. The plant name ultimately comes from the Greek word ῥυτή (rhyte). Additionally, Rue is sometimes used as a short form of the biblical name Ruth 1, though it stands as an independent name in its own right. Etymology and Plant Lore The herb rue has a long history in herbal medicine and folklore. According to Wikipedia, Ruta graveolens is also called common rue, ruda, or herb-of-grace. Its specific epithet graveolens refers to its strong-smelling leaves. The plant is a woody perennial shrub with bluish-green bipinnate leaves and small yellow flowers, notable for its tolerance of hot, dry conditions. It has been cultivated as a culinary herb, insect repellent, and incense. The bitter taste and medicinal properties of rue—used historically as a digestive aid and contraceptive—add a layer of symbolic meaning to the name, often associated with regret or bitterness in literature. The name Rue also gains resonance through its homophony with the rare English word ruth meaning “pity, compassion” (the root of “ruthless”). However, the direct botanical connection remains primary for this given name. Cultural Significance and Usage While never extremely common, Rue has appeared as a given name in English-speaking countries, particularly in the 20th and 21st centuries. As a short form of Ruth, it connects to the biblical story (Book of Ruth) where Ruth, a Moabite woman, demonstrates loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and becomes an ancestor of King David. The name Ruth gained prominence as a Christian name after the Protestant Reformation and became popular in America after “Baby” Ruth Cleveland (1891–1904), daughter of President Grover Cleveland. Rue, by contrast, is a much rarer form, prized by parents seeking a simple, nature-inspired, or old-fashioned name. The plant rue has also been used as a symbol of bitterness and regret, featuring in works such as Shakespeare's Hamlet where Ophelia says, “There’s rue for you; and here’s some for me: we may call it herb-grace o’ Sundays.” This literary connection gives the name a subtle, thoughtful quality. Related Names In Lithuanian, the name Rūta is a related form, directly derived from the same herb (Lithuanian expands rūta for the plant rue). Meaning: Bitter medicinal herb; also a short form of Ruth (“female friend”) Origin: Greek (plant name), indirectly Hebrew (as diminutive of Ruth) Type: Feminine given name Usage: English