From Old English meaning 'rye field', originally a surname, modernized as unisex given name.
Vibe
gentle
How it ages.
Riley has surged from surname to consistent top-20 unisex choice in English-speaking nations.
The cultural moment.
North America and Britain experienced Riley rising from rare to top-20 starting 2005, sustained momentum through 2024, stronger for boys than girls. Currently ranks #42 in the US.