Rebecca is derived from the Hebrew name Rivqah (ִר ְב ָקה ), from a Semitic root word meaning "join, tie, snare". Like many other Biblical names, Rebecca first came into use ast an English name following the Protestant Reformation and was popular amongst Puritans in the 17th century. Its modern popularity peaked at the end of the 20th century, reaching the number 1 spot for girls' names in 1994. It has been on the decline since then.