Rita

Rita is a feminine given name that originated as a diminutive form of the Spanish name Rito, which itself is derived from the Spanish word 'rita' meaning 'small brook' or 'stream'.

The name Rita has been popular in various cultures, particularly in Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese-speaking regions, as well as in parts of Eastern Europe and Scandinavia.

In some contexts, Rita is also associated with the ancient Persian goddess of healing and fertility, Ritu. However, the name's direct origins can be traced back to the Spanish word for a small watercourse.

Over time, Rita has become a standalone name in its own right, appreciated for its simple yet melodic sound and its connection to the natural world through its meaning related to water.