It was originally a diminutive masculine given name or nickname of Robert, derived from the prefix Ro- (hrod, Old Germanic, meaning "fame" and berht, meaning "bright"), and the suffix -in (Old French diminutive).

Robin is occasionally found as a surname in English-speaking countries.

Common nicknames are Rob, Robbie or Bobby.

[1] In Europe, although it is sometimes regarded as a feminine name, it is generally given to boys.

[2] The gender gap has narrowed as the name has become generally less popular.