“Ryan originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Riain'”
Ireland origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#83US 2023
4kBirths / yr
↓Falling
968.5kAll-time births
📅 Since 1906🏆 50 years in top 1001.6% of births at peak
How to pronounce Ryan
REYE·AN
/ˈraɪ.ˈæn/ · stress on REYE · 2 syllables
“Ryan originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Riain'”
Ireland origin · Boy name
What does Ryan mean and where does it come from?
Ryan originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Riain'. It has traditionally been a male name, but its use for females has increased significantly since the late 20th century. In the U.S., Ryan is commonly used for girls as well, reflecting changing trends in gender naming conventions
Cultural significance
Ryan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Declining — down 9 spots — currently #83 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1920–2023#83 · Top 0.06%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#83
4,034
▼ down 9 · -8% births
2022
#74
4,399
▼ down 8 · -7% births
2021
#66
4,732
▼ down 9 · -10% births
2020
#57
5,286
▼ down 18 · -38% births
2015
#39
8,526
▼ down 16 · -29% births
2010
#23
11,969
▼ down 9 · -33% births
2005
#14
17,985
▼ down 1 · -11% births
2000
#13
20,264
▲ up 2 · -12% births
1995
#15
23,086
▼ down 4 · -21% births
1990
#11
29,249
▲ up 1 · -2% births
1985
#12
29,903
▲ up 3 · +21% births
1980
#15
24,808
▲ up 8 · +62% births
1975
#23
15,304
▲ up 116 · +557% births
1970
#139
2,331
▲ up 81 · +115% births
1965
#220
1,086
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ryan
1990Rank #11
29,903
#603
↗Rising
1920 - 202324 years
The story of Ryan
Ryan entered American naming records in 1906 and has been in use for over 118 years. Its peak popularity was #11 in 1986. Over 968K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2518 in 1920 to #83 in 2023. Ryan is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.
Ryan means "Irish" — a name rooted in Ireland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Ryan?
Ryan is currently ranked #83 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Ryan?
Ryan originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Ryan?
Ryan is a two-syllable name pronounced R AY1 AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ryan more of a girl or boy name?
Ryan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Ryan
For a sister
Ryan & Connor♡
Ryan & Brianna♡
Ryan & Delaney♡
Ryan & Aidan♡
For a brother
Ryan & Connor♡
Ryan & Brianna♡
Ryan & Delaney♡
Ryan & Aidan♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks