Reid

Origin

Scottish origin, from the surname Reid meaning 'red' or 'ruddy'. The surname appears in Scottish clan history and is derived from Old English 'rēad' or Old Norse 'reith'. It has been recorded in ancient texts and is associated with Scottish clans such as Clan Reid. The name was brought to Australia through Scottish settlement and has become popular in English-speaking countries.

Meaning

Literal translation: 'red' or 'ruddy'. In the Australian context, it often connotes someone with red hair or a reddish complexion, embodying qualities like warmth and vitality.

Pronunciation

/ɹiːd/ (Australian English pronunciation with the emphasis on the first syllable, pronounced 'Reed'). The 'r' is pronounced with a tapped or approximant sound, and the vowel is long.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 17 June (International Day of Family Remittances)
• 28 August (Feast of Saint Augustine) – though not specifically celebrated for Reid, these are some general name days observed in Australia.
• Official name days are less common in Australia, but some Christian traditions may observe feast days associated with saints or religious figures bearing the name Reid.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with reid:

• Reid and James Reid and William Reid and Olivia Reid and Ava
• Reid as a first or middle name pairs well with classic or modern names, both for siblings or double-barrel names.
• Reid and Charlotte for a balanced classic pairing.

Fun Facts

• The surname Reid has been borne by notable Australians, including Sir George Reid, a former Prime Minister of Australia.
• In Australian popular culture, the name Reid is associated with characters in literature and television, emphasizing traits of toughness and reliability.
• In Australian racing history, 'Reid' has been a surname of several famous racehorses and trainers.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name reid:

• Reliable
• Strong-willed
• Loyal
• Honest
• Resilient

Aesthetic Qualities

Clean, straightforward, and timeless. The name’s simplicity and sharpness give it a modern yet classic aesthetic in Australian English typography and usage.

Geographical Distribution

More common in coastal and southern Australian states such as Victoria and South Australia, where Scottish and British ancestry is more prevalent, but widely recognised across the nation.

Numerological Significance

Name number 9, often associated with humanitarian ideals, compassion, and idealism, reflecting qualities attributed to the name's bearer in numerology.

Astrological Connections

Reid is linked to planets such as Mars and Sun in astrology, aligning with energetic, confident, and leadership qualities often associated with the name.

Historical Context

The name Reid gained prominence in Australia through Scottish migrants and has been associated with various notable figures, including politicians, artists, and sportspeople. Its use as a given name expanded in the 20th century, linked to its strong Scottish heritage and cultural integration.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name Reid easily adapts across English-speaking countries, maintaining phonetic consistency. It can be translated or adapted into non-Latin scripts as Reið in Old Norse contexts, though such variants are rare.

Famous People Named reid

• Sir George Reid (Politician, 1845–1918), former Prime Minister of Australia.
• Reid Hoffman (American entrepreneur with Australian links)
• Reid Scott (Australian actor)

Popularity in Australia