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Baby names

Find baby name inspiration and advice on the Mumsnet Baby Names forum.

Original poster

Rueben

36 replies

PregnantAtLast · 08/12/2024 09:11

Me and DH both like the name Reuben, but a relative pointed out the other week that it's a Jewish name and people will assume we're Jewish if we use it.

Is this true? I thought the name Reuben was becoming more popular generally?

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Vax · 08/12/2024 09:35

Very popular here in the Jewish community but wouldn't think that is any issue.

rewilded · 08/12/2024 09:24

I do like it and have a friend with the name. I can never remember the correct spelling so that is annoying and other people will spell it wrong.

LlynTegid · 08/12/2024 09:21

I immediately thought of two Dutch comedians, who are not Jewish as far as I know.

I'd be concerned about your DS having to correct the spelling too often, as I think many would assume Ruben not Reuben.

DanceToTheMusicInMyHead · 08/12/2024 09:18

I have a Reuben. No one assumes we are Jewish (despite DDs name also being traditionally Jewish as well).

You have fallen into the classic trap of this name though - spelt it wrongly in the title. It is constantly misspelt. Depends how much that irritates you...

RedToothBrush · 08/12/2024 09:17

Decide your spelling!

You've spelt it differently in the title to the OP. I dislike the one you have in the OP. I know you can spell it that way but it looks incorrect to me.

I don't think Reuben is particularly Jewish. It's reasonably fashionable at the moment without being too fashionable. It popularity doesnt suggest Jewish. Just biblical.

KiwiLondoner · 08/12/2024 09:15

Would never think it was Jewish. Sounds lovely

DustyLee123 · 08/12/2024 09:15

I prefer Ruben, I wouldn’t assume you’re Jewish.

teatoast8 · 08/12/2024 09:15

Cute name

Edingril · 08/12/2024 09:14

It's a sandwich to me

Moreteaandchocolate · 08/12/2024 09:14

I know a few Reubens, none of them are Jewish, so that certainly wouldn’t be my assumption ☺️

Zippidydoodah · 08/12/2024 09:13

No, it’s a popular name and I don’t think people will assume you’re Jewish. I mean, what does it matter if they do, anyway? Just put them straight if necessary.