Rileigh is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "O'Raghallaigh," which means "descendant of Ragallach." Ragallach was a chief who lived in County Roscommon during the 12th century, and his descendants adopted this surname.
The name Rileigh has a strong historical background and is associated with Irish nobility. It is believed to have originated from the ancient Irish clan system, where surnames were often passed down through generations based on the family's lineage or notable ancestors.
In recent times, Rileigh has gained popularity as a given name for boys, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada. While it remains relatively rare compared to more common names like John or James, its unique Irish origins and historic significance make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with meaningful roots.
Overall, Rileigh is a captivating name that combines the charm of Irish heritage with a modern twist, making it an appealing option for those who appreciate rare and historically significant names.
The name Rileigh has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, with a total of 3775 babies being born with this name since 1991.
In the early 1990s, the name was quite rare, with only 5 births reported in 1991. However, it started to gain traction in popularity over time. In just one year, from 1992 to 1993, the number of babies named Rileigh more than doubled, going from 11 births to 25.
The years between 1997 and 2002 were particularly notable for the name Rileigh. During this period, the number of births per year consistently increased, with a peak of 221 births in 2009. This marked the highest point of popularity for the name during the time frame provided.
However, after reaching its peak, the popularity of the name Rileigh began to decline steadily. By 2022, only 33 babies were named Rileigh at birth, marking a significant decrease from its peak nearly a decade earlier.
Despite this recent decline in popularity, the name Rileigh still holds significance with many families in the United States. With over three thousand babies having been named Rileigh since 1991, it is clear that this name has had a notable impact on American naming trends during this time period.