Reed

boyOld English

Reed is an boy name of Old English origin, meaning “Red-haired”.

MeaningRed-haired
GenderBoy
OriginOld English
PronunciationREED
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Canada

Meaning and origin of Reed

Reed is an English surname from the Old English rēad, 'red', originally a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy face. In some cases it may also come from place names meaning 'clearing' or from the reed plant. It has been used as a first name since the nineteenth century, and is shared with the spellings Read and Reid.

Is Reed a religious name?

Reed has no religious background; it is an English surname used as a first name.

How popular is Reed?

A steady, uncommon first name in the United States.

Gifts with the name Reed

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Spellings and variants of Reed

ReidReadReade

Names similar to Reed

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Reed mean?

Reed means 'Red-haired'. It is of Old English origin.

Does Reed have a religious meaning?

Reed has no religious background; it is an English surname used as a first name.

How do you pronounce Reed?

Reed is pronounced REED.

Is Reed a boy or girl name?

Reed is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.