Ryan
Ryan is a boy name of Irish origin meaning “Little king”, pronounced RYE-un. It ranked #99 in the United States in 2025, given to 3,532 babies, and peaked at #11 in 1986. Common nicknames: Ry, Rye.
How popular is Ryan in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Ryan mean, and where does it come from?
Ryan comes from the Irish surname O'Riain, derived from the Old Irish word "ri" meaning "king" with a diminutive suffix, giving it the meaning "little king." The name has deep roots in Irish history and was originally a surname borne by several notable Irish families. It transitioned to widespread use as a first name in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States and Canada. Ryan became one of the most popular boy names in the English-speaking world during the 1970s through 1990s, and it continues to be a strong, timeless choice.
How is Ryan used around the world?
Ryan is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Ryan?
Famous People Named Ryan
- Ryan Gosling — Canadian actor and filmmaker
- Ryan Reynolds — Canadian-American actor and producer
- Ryan Giggs — Welsh professional footballer
Similar Names to Ryan
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Sibling Name Ideas for Ryan
Looking for names that pair well with Ryan? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Ryan mean?
Ryan is a boy name of Irish origin meaning "Little king." Ryan comes from the Irish surname O'Riain, derived from the Old Irish word "ri" meaning "king" with a diminutive suffix, giving it the meaning "little king." The name has deep roots in Irish history and was originally a surname borne by several notable Irish families.
How do you pronounce Ryan?
Ryan is pronounced RYE-un. Common variations include Rian, Ryen, Ryann.
Is Ryan a boy name?
Yes, Ryan is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Ry, Rye.