Meaning, origin, history
Riley is a name of Irish origin, meaning "valorous" or "courageous." It comes from the Irish surname Ó Raghallaigh, which was derived from the word "rioghlach," meaning "fearless." The name Riley has been used as both a given name and a surname for centuries.
The name Riley first appeared in Ireland during the Middle Ages. It was originally a surname, given to people of Irish descent who were believed to be brave and fearless. Over time, the name began to be used as a given name for boys and girls alike.
Today, Riley is a popular choice for both baby boys and girls in English-speaking countries around the world. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Riley was the 37th most popular girl's name and the 104th most popular boy's name in the United States in 2020.
Despite its popularity today, Riley remains a unique and distinctive name with deep roots in Irish history. Its meaning of "valorous" or "courageous" makes it an excellent choice for parents looking for a strong and meaningful name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Rieley since 1880
Total births
203
Total since 1880
Peak year
2005
21 births
in 2016
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
↘
vs previous 5 years