The name Reba originated from the Hebrew language and culture, likely during the biblical era. It is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word "revav," which means "abundance" or "plenty." The name may have also been influenced by the Hebrew word "rebah," meaning "fourth," as it was sometimes used to refer to the fourth daughter in a family.

In the Old Testament, the name Reba is mentioned in the Book of Genesis as the daughter of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. However, it is unclear whether this reference is to an actual person or a personification of the tribe itself.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Reba was Reba the Selenite, a philosopher and mathematician who lived in the 5th century BCE. She is credited with developing a method for determining the height of mountains by measuring their shadows.

In the Middle Ages, there was a renowned scholar and poet named Reba ben Ezra, who was born in Andalusia, Spain, in the 12th century. She wrote extensively on topics ranging from philosophy to astronomy and is considered a pioneering figure in the golden age of Jewish culture in Spain.

During the Renaissance, Reba Castellani was an influential Italian painter and sculptor who lived in the 15th century. She is best known for her religious works, including frescoes and altarpieces commissioned by churches and wealthy patrons.

In the 19th century, Reba Merrill was an American educator and author who founded the Merrill Academy for Young Ladies in New Hampshire. She wrote several books on education and was a prominent figure in the early women's rights movement.

More recently, Reba McEntire, born in 1955, is a renowned American country music singer and actress. She has released numerous successful albums, won numerous awards, and starred in various television shows and films throughout her career, cementing her status as one of the most influential and successful country artists of all time.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Reba throughout history, reflecting its enduring legacy across different cultures, time periods, and disciplines.