We celebrate National Robin Day on March 3 each year. Robin is a forename used by both boys and girls. The masculine name is the shortened version of the German name Robert. The feminine side is more commonly associated with the red-breasted robin. This observance celebrates the uniqueness of the name and its bearers. It’s an opportunity to shed light on the name’s evolution over the years and its modern applications.
History of National Robin Day
Robin is both a given name and a surname for both men and women. It was derived from the union of ‘Ro’ (‘fame’) and ‘berht’ (‘bright’). Robin is resurfacing for males now that it is no longer as popular for girls. After all, the namesakes of Robin Hood, Christopher Robin, Robin Williams, and Robin the Boy Wonder are all male. It made a comeback on America’s top 1,000 boys’ names chart in 2015, having been absent on the list since 1999.
Although it is occasionally considered a feminine name in Europe, it is more commonly given to boys. In England, 88% of newborns named Robin were males in 2014. It was once popular as a female name in the United States. In the 1990s, it was number 325 on the list of most popular girl names and number 693 on the boys’ list.
However, the disparity is decreasing, and the number of newborn boys and girls called Robin in the U.S. has recently been approximately equal. In 2014, boys made up 46% of all newborns named Robin in the U.S.
Popular variants and nicknames for Robin include Robyn, Robine, Robynne, Robbin, Robyne, and Robbyn. In France, Robin happens to also be a fairly popular surname. The name has been adopted as a surname for families in several English-speaking countries. Robins are also fondly called Bobby, Robbie, or Rob.
It has several notable bearers with accomplishments in everything from diplomacy and science to journalism and entertainment. Famous Robins include British journalist Robin Aitken, choreographer and founder of the Pussycat Dolls Robin Antin, British diplomat Robin Barnett, and American scientist Robin Bell.
National Robin Day timeline
American actor and comedian Williams is born on July 21.
In England, over 88% of newborn Robins are males.
In the U.S., 46% of newborns called Robin are males.
Robin makes a comeback on the top 1,000 list of boys’ names.
National Robin Day FAQs
What does Robin mean in Christianity?
According to Christianity, when Jesus was crucified, a small robin flew forth to assist him. As a result, seeing a robin could be interpreted as a divine encounter, signifying that help will arrive when you need it. It also implies that you must assist those in need rather than turn a blind eye to their plight.
Which country has Robin as its unofficial national bird?
In 2015, bird expert David Lindo launched an online poll to find out the U.K.’s first national bird. Robin emerged as the top choice, cornering 34% of the votes.
What is Robin's name in “Batman?”
Dick Grayson, the youngest member of a circus aerialist family, is the name of Robin the Boy Wonder.
National Robin Day Activities
Watch a movie with a Robin character
“Robin Hood” is a great choice if you’re going this route. Other picks like “Batman and Robin” are great ways to celebrate National Robin Day.
Play dress up
Again, Robin Hood immediately comes to mind. Dress up in a way that reflects your name and enjoy your special day with pride.
Thank your parents
You’re probably so used to calling your name yours that it’s easy to forget that someone gave it to you. Thank your parents for giving you your amazing name and they just might reward you with the story behind it.
5 Interesting Facts About Robins
A comic book franchise begins with Robin
Red Robin is the nickname of a fictional superhero in American comics.
Christ’s lasting touch makes the robin red
The red-breasted robin is said to have gotten its distinctive marking after being touched by Jesus Christ as he died on the cross.
Football has a die-hard fan in Robin
During his tenure as the British ambassador to Ireland, British diplomat Robin Barnett had a Manchester United jersey (with Roy Keane’s signature) hung in his office.
A Robin roamed the flanks
Famous striker Robin van Persie started his career as a winger for Feyenoord.
Robin is a serial winner in acting
Robin Williams won six Golden Globe Awards, five Grammy Awards, two Primetime Emmy Awards, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Why We Love National Robin Day
It makes Robins feel special
National Robin Day is a special time for people named Robin. It’s a time of celebration, self-reflection, and self-love.
It brings us closer
As we celebrate with friends and family members named Robin, we all get to spend quality time with each other. We strengthen the bond of friendship, and indeed, family during observances like this.
We gain valuable knowledge
Name days help us brush up our knowledge of names. We learn so much about ourselves as we uncover the origins and hidden meanings behind our names.
National Robin Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | March 3 | Monday |
2026 | March 3 | Tuesday |
2027 | March 3 | Wednesday |
2028 | March 3 | Friday |
2029 | March 3 | Saturday |