Rylea is a name of recent origin and popularity, with its roots traced back to the Irish surname Ryall. The surname Ryall itself is believed to have been derived from the Old Norse personal name Hrolfr, which means "famous wolf." However, when it comes to the given name Rylea, there isn't a universally agreed-upon meaning or origin.
Despite its unclear etymology, Rylea has gained traction as a modern and unique given name in recent years. It first appeared on the Social Security Administration's list of baby names in the United States in 2008, with just two girls receiving the name that year. Since then, its popularity has steadily grown, reaching its peak in 2016 when it was given to 573 girls.
Rylea is often associated with other similar-sounding names like Regan, Riley, and Ryann. Its spelling and pronunciation can vary; while some spell it as Ryleigh or Rylla, most commonly it's spelled Rylea and pronounced "RY-lee-uh."
The name Rylea does not have any known historical figures or cultural significance attached to it. However, its unique sound and modern feel make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child. As with many names of recent origin, the meaning behind Rylea may evolve over time as people associate new qualities or characteristics with those who bear the name.
The name Rylea has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. The earliest records show that there were only 6 babies named Rylea in 1991, but this number increased to a peak of 73 births in 2008.
The years 2003 and 2004 saw a particularly notable jump in the popularity of the name, with a total of 121 babies named Rylea during these two years combined. However, after reaching this high point, the number of births decreased significantly over the next few years, reaching an all-time low of just 6 births in both 2022 and 2023.
In total, there have been 1085 babies named Rylea in the United States between 1991 and 2023. While this name may not be as common today as it was a decade ago, it is still a unique and distinctive choice for parents looking for something different for their child's name.