Find out how popular the first name Reata has been for the last 16 years (from 2007 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Reata by gender

Based on the last 16 years of data, Reata is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 11 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Reata.

The history of the first name Reata

The name Reata is believed to have originated from the Spanish language, derived from the word "reata," which means a lariat or lasso used by cowboys and ranchers to catch cattle. This connection suggests that the name may have roots in the ranching and cowboy culture of the American West or regions of Mexico and Latin America where Spanish is widely spoken.

In its earliest documented use, the name Reata appeared in literary works and historical accounts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often associated with characters or individuals who were part of the vibrant ranching and cowboy communities of that era. It's possible that the name was initially used as a nickname or term of endearment for someone skilled with a lasso or closely tied to the ranching way of life.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Reata was Reata Brazos, born in 1872, who was a renowned horse trainer and trick rider from Texas. She gained fame for her skilled horsemanship and daring performances in Wild West shows and rodeos during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Another notable figure was Reata Winnemucca, a Paiute woman born in 1844, who became a prominent advocate for Native American rights and worked as an interpreter and guide for the U.S. Army. She played a crucial role in negotiations and diplomatic efforts between the government and various Native American tribes.

In the realm of literature, the name Reata gained prominence through the works of author Zane Grey, who used it for the title character in his 1915 novel "Reata." The book, set in the American West, featured a strong-willed and independent heroine named Reata, reflecting the spirit of the untamed frontier.

The name Reata also appeared in the historical records of the Mexican-American War, where a woman named Reata Gonzalez is mentioned as a skilled horsewoman and scout who aided the American forces during the conflict in the mid-19th century.

Another figure of note was Reata Yellowhawk, born in 1892, a Cheyenne artist and potter known for her intricate and beautiful pottery designs that celebrated her Native American heritage and traditions.

While the name Reata may not have gained widespread popularity throughout history, it has remained a distinctive and intriguing choice, evoking images of the rugged and adventurous spirit of the American West and the rich cultural traditions of Spanish-speaking regions.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Reata was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Reata, please contact us.

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