Régine

Girl Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ʁeˈʒin/

Régine: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon". It derives from the Latin word "rēx > rēgis > rēgīna".

Régine has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Latin roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Régine

Quick facts about Régine
OriginLatin
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

rēx > rēgis > rēgīna

How to Pronounce Régine

Régine is pronounced /ʁeˈʒin/(French)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Régin-e
  2. Say it like: "RÉGIN-E"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Régine is predominantly used in french speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

french
Name Relationships

Régine is a variant form of Regina, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Régine
What does the name Régine mean?
Régine means "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.". The name comes from rēx > rēgis > rēgīna. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Régine for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Régine's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Régine?
Régine is a latin name. The name traces back to rēx > rēgis > rēgīna. The name remains closely tied to french naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Régine developed as a form of Regina, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Régine a boy or girl name?
Régine is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Régine has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Régine?
Régine is pronounced "/ʁeˈʒin/". This pronunciation follows fr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Régine is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Régine can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Régine?
Régine is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Régine offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Régine's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Régine holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Régine?
Régine is a form of Regina. Over time, Regina developed into several variations, with Régine emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In latin tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Régine might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In french, Régine may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Régine commonly used?
Régine is used primarily in french naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Régine found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name has a meaning similar to Malika and Rhiannon. Spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Régine into their naming traditions. A child named Régine will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Régine is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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