All about the name

Reilley

Female

« Reilley is a unique Irish given name derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Raghallaigh, originally meaning "powerful" or "strong". »

#26918 over 10 years

Meaning, origin, history

Reilley is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic surname "Ó Raghallaigh," which is believed to have been brought to Ireland by the Norse-Vikings in the 9th century. The original meaning of the surname is uncertain, but it is thought to be derived from the Old Norse personal name "Hralldr," which means "powerful" or "strong." The name Reilley has a long and storied history in Ireland. It was originally a Norman surname that was brought to Ireland by the Anglo-Normans who invaded the country in the 12th century. The Reilleys were a prominent family in County Meath, where they held significant lands and titles. Over time, the name Reilley became anglicized to Riley, which is now one of the most common spellings of the name in English-speaking countries. Despite this change in spelling, the name remains distinctly Irish in origin and meaning. Today, Reilley is still a popular given name in Ireland, as well as in other parts of the world where there is an Irish diaspora. It is often chosen by parents who want to give their child a strong, distinctive name with Irish roots. In summary, Reilley is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin that means "powerful" or "strong." It has a long and storied history in Ireland, where it was originally a Norman surname brought to the country by the Anglo-Normans. Over time, the name became anglicized to Riley, but it remains distinctly Irish in origin and meaning. Today, Reilley is still a popular given name in Ireland and other parts of the world with an Irish diaspora.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Reilley since 1880

Total births
180
Total since 1880
Peak year
2004
17 births
in 2013
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
vs previous 5 years