Reilly

Reilly is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Raghallaigh. The original Gaelic form of the name was "Ó Raghalach", which meant "descendant of Raghalach". Raghalach was likely a personal name meaning "little bright-headed" or "little clever one". The Reilly family was prominent in Ireland, particularly in County Meath. They were known as a sept of the Uí Neill, one of the most powerful and influential families in Irish history. The Uí Neill were descendants of Niall Noígíallach, the legendary high king of Ireland. Reilly became popular as a given name in Ireland during the 19th century. It was often used for both boys and girls, although it is now more commonly used as a male name. The name has also gained popularity outside of Ireland, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and Canada. Some notable people with the surname Reilly include the Irish-American politician James "Jimmy" J. Reilly Jr., who served as a U.S. Representative from Illinois, and the Australian rules footballer Michael Reilly, who played for the Essendon Football Club. However, there are no significant historical figures or legends associated specifically with the name Reilly. In literature, the name Reilly appears in several works by Irish authors, including James Joyce's "Ulysses" and Flann O'Brien's "At Swim-Two-Birds". The name is also used in popular culture, such as in the video game "Call of Duty: Black Ops III", where a character named Reilly is featured. Overall, while the name Reilly has a rich history rooted in Irish culture and heritage, it is not associated with any specific legends or traditions. Instead, its meaning is relatively straightforward, reflecting its origins as a Gaelic surname. Nonetheless, it remains a popular choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.