Meaning, origin, history
Reilley is a unique and distinctively Irish name of French origin. It is derived from the French surname Réaumay, which was brought to Ireland by French settlers during the Middle Ages. The name Reilley is believed to have been adopted as a first name in the 18th century.
The meaning of Reilley is not explicitly known, but it is thought to be associated with the French word "réal," which means "real" or "genuine." Therefore, Reilley could be interpreted as meaning "true" or "authentic."
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures bearing the name Reilley. One of the most famous was Patrick Reilly (1845-1923), an Irish journalist and politician who played a significant role in Irish politics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Today, Reilley remains a popular choice among parents seeking a distinctive name with Irish roots for their children. Despite its French origins, Reilley has become strongly associated with Ireland due to its widespread use there over generations. It is often spelled in various ways, including Riley, Reilly, andReilly, but regardless of the spelling, the name holds a unique charm that continues to appeal to many families.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Reilley since 1880
Total births
107
Total since 1880
Peak year
2008
16 births
in 2016
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
↘
vs previous 5 years