Name profile

Rab

A Scottish Robert diminutive meaning “bright fame.”

Meaning and history

Rab is a Scottish diminutive of Robert. Robert derives from the Germanic name Hrodebert, combining elements meaning “fame” and “bright,” and is conventionally interpreted as “bright fame.” The Normans introduced Robert widely into Britain, where Rab developed as a distinctly Scots familiar form and later an independent name. Notable bearers include Scottish singer-songwriter Rab Noakes and Scottish comedian and actor Rab Florence. Rabbie is another affectionate Scots form, famously applied to Robert Burns.