Riley

Riley is a Irish girl's name. Irish surname meaning "valiant" or "courageous." Has become popular as a first name with a friendly, spirited feel.

How popular is Riley in the United States?

In 2024, 4,644 girls in the United States were named Riley, making it the 42nd most popular girl's name that year.

Its position has held steady, at 47th a decade earlier.

Its busiest year on record was 2008, with 9,904 births.

Records for Riley go back to 1880, and 240,821 babies have been given the name since.

What Riley means and where it comes from

Irish surname meaning "valiant" or "courageous." Has become popular as a first name with a friendly, spirited feel. Its sprightly sound works beautifully for any gender.

Riley is of Irish origin, described as modern in style.

Is Riley a boy's or a girl's name?

In 2024, Riley went to 4,644 girls and 1,567 boys — 75% girls.

That makes it genuinely unisex, leaning female.

Sibling name ideas for Riley

Names of the same origin for a brother, most common first.

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Riley mean?

Irish surname meaning "valiant" or "courageous." Has become popular as a first name with a friendly, spirited feel.

Where does the name Riley come from?

Riley is of Irish origin, and is usually described as modern in style.

How popular is Riley in the United States?

In 2024, 4,644 girls in the United States were named Riley, making it the 42nd most popular girl's name that year.

Is Riley a boy's or a girl's name?

In 2024, Riley went to 4,644 girls and 1,567 boys — 75% girls. That makes it genuinely unisex, leaning female.

Lists Riley appears on

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