Reilly

Meaning valiant
Origin Gaelic, Irish, Norse
Gender gender neutral
Opposite gender Reilly
Popularity Moderate
Length 6
Syllables 2
Syllabification Reil-ly

About Reilly

The double-L construction gives this name visual distinctiveness that separates it from the more common Riley spelling, adding a touch of Irish authenticity that nods to its Gaelic origins. This spelling choice suggests thoughtfulness in name selection, an appreciation for traditional forms even while choosing something broadly accessible. The sound itself—two light syllables with that liquid 'l' in the middle—creates a friendly, approachable feel that suits children and adults equally well.

Gender flexibility represents one of this name's defining characteristics; it crosses traditional boundaries effortlessly, though in this context it's being considered for a boy. The 'R' beginning provides strength, while the '-ly' ending (however spelled) introduces a softer conclusion. This balance prevents the name from skewing too heavily in either direction regarding perceived masculinity or femininity.

Nickname options remain limited, meaning the name maintains its form throughout life. It functions well in diverse settings—playgrounds, classrooms, sports teams, and eventually professional environments. The name's rising popularity hasn't yet reached oversaturation point, keeping it fresh while ensuring it's not so unusual as to cause confusion or constant explanation. Cultural associations remain broadly positive and energetic.

Variations of Name Reilly

Riley
Ryan
Reece
Russell
Richard
Robert

Nicknames for Reilly

Rei
Reil
Riley
Reilly

Famous People Named Reilly

Reilly Opelkaprofessional tennis player
Reilly Browncomic book artist
Reilly O'BrienAFL player
Reilly Stithsinger-songwriter
Reilly KillbrideTV producer
Reilly Campbellactor
Reilly Bodycombmartial artist
Reilly Smithactor
Reilly Dolmanactor
Reilly Lincolndirector
Reilly Hollingsworthskier
Reilly Huffsoccer player
Reilly Ehlingerbaseball player
Reilly O'Connorrugby player
Reilly Hennesseylacrosse player
Reilly Barberchef
Reilly O'Toolefootball player
Reilly Donovanfilmmaker
Reilly Pickardhockey player

Characters Named Reilly

Reilly Ace of Spiesfrom the TV series "Reilly, Ace of Spies"
Reilly O'Reillycharacter in "Cheers" TV series
Reilly Stokercharacter in the book "Tattoo" by Kirsten Imani Kasai
Reilly Kanecharacter in "American Dreams" TV series
Reilly Tillmancharacter in "The Mephisto Covenant" by Trinity Faegen
Reilly Diefenbachcharacter in "The Hollows" series by Kim Harrison
Reilly McClendoncharacter in "In Plain Sight" TV series
Reilly O'Malleycharacter in "Time After Time" by Lisa Grunwald
Reilly Finchcharacter in "Life, Love & Lily White Lies" by Natasha Friend
Reilly Markscharacter in "Freaks and Revelations" by Davida Wills Hurwin
Reilly Evanscharacter in "I Can't Tell You" by Hilary Frank
Reilly Dunncharacter in "The Road Home" by Deborah Smith
Reilly Tuelocharacter in "Skinned" by Robin Wasserman
Reilly Sweetwatercharacter in "Infernal Devices" by Philip Reeve
Reilly McGrathcharacter in "A Spark of Light" by Jodi Picoult
Reilly Chasecharacter in "Strange Weather" by Joe Hill
Reilly Regancharacter in "City of a Thousand Dolls" by Miriam Forster
Reilly Hallcharacter in "This Song Will Save Your Life" by Leila Sales
Reilly Milescharacter in "Blood Magic" by Tessa Gratton
Reilly Davenportcharacter in "Kiss Me, Kill Me" by Lauren Henderson

Other Popular Names Beginning with R

Reuben
Ryan
Ryker
Reece
Ravi
Roland
Renzo
Rhys
Rian
Reid