Riley
Meaning of Riley
Riley is a versatile and charming unisex name that has consistently grown in popularity over the years. Originating from the Old English words "ryge" (rye) and "leah" (wood or clearing), Riley can be interpreted to mean "rye clearing." This name carries a sense of natural beauty and simplicity, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with rustic roots. Pronounced as RY-lee (/ˈraɪli/), Riley has seen various spellings such as Rylee and Ryleigh, offering even more personalized options. The name Riley has steadily climbed the ranks in the United States, reaching its peak popularity in recent years; it was ranked 22nd in 2016 with over 7,000 occurrences. Its enduring appeal lies in its modern sound coupled with classic origins, making it suitable for both boys and girls. Whether you envision your child as adventurous or serene, Riley is a name that fits many personalities while also holding a timeless charm.
Pronunciation
English
- Pronunced as RY-lee (/ˈraɪli/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
States Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Riley
| Danielle Riley Keough is an American actress known for her roles in The Runaways, The Good Doctor, Magic Mike, and Mad Max: Fury Road. |
| Riley Cooper is a former American football wide receiver known for his six-season career in the NFL, playing for the Philadelphia Eagles after a successful college football tenure at the University of Florida. |
| Riley Keaton Adams is a professional baseball catcher for the Washington Nationals, having made his MLB debut with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2021. |
| Riley Greene is an American professional baseball outfielder for the Detroit Tigers, making his MLB debut in 2022 after being drafted fifth overall in the 2019 MLB draft. |
| Riley Parker - Riley Grace Mattingly Parker is an American professional women's soccer player known for her role as a forward for Racing Louisville FC in the NWSL. |
| Riley Elizabeth Clemmons is an American Christian musician known for her contemporary worship music and radio hits like "Broken Prayers" and "Better for It". |
| Riley Patterson is an American football placekicker currently playing for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL, with previous stints at the Detroit Lions and the Jacksonville Jaguars. |
| Todd Ritter, also known as Riley Sager and Alan Finn, is a renowned American author of thriller novels. |
| Riley Green is a successful American country music singer and songwriter, known for hits like "There Was This Girl" and "I Wish Grandpas Never Died". |
| Cavin Riley Ridley is a free agent American football wide receiver who played college football at Georgia. |
| Hudson Riley Hawk is an American professional skateboarder. |
| Riley Emilia Voelkel is an American-born Canadian actress known for her roles in The Originals, Legacies, The Newsroom, and American Horror Story: Coven. |
| Riley Logan Ferguson is a former American football quarterback known for his college career at Memphis. |
| William Riley Hatch was an American singer and actor known for his performances on stage and in silent films. |
| Riley, a bay colt, won the 1890 Kentucky Derby and had a successful racing career under the ownership of Edward Corrigan and the guidance of trainer Isaac Murphy. |
