Reilly Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Reilly
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name REILLY. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Reilly
Gender
Male
Origin
Irish
Lucky Number
9
Meaning of the Name
Reilly is an Anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Raghallaigh, meaning 'descendant of Raghallach', a personal name of uncertain origin, possibly meaning 'valiant' or 'sociable'.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Mars
Positive Nature
Generous, passionate, energetic, and humanitarian.
Negative Traits
Impulsive, impatient, moody, and can be overly emotional.
Lucky Colours
Red, maroon, scarlet.
Lucky Days
Tuesday.
Lucky Stones
Red coral, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
1, 2, 3, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Military, sports, philanthropy, leadership roles.
What People Like About You
Courage, energy, leadership, generosity.
Famous People Named Reilly
John Reilly
Actor
Known for roles in 'The West Wing' and 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2'
Mike Reilly
Sports Announcer
Official voice of the Ironman Triathlon, known as 'The Voice of Ironman'
Charles Nelson Reilly
Actor/Comedian
Tony Award-winning actor and frequent game show panelist in the 1970s-80s
Tommy Reilly
Musician
Scottish-Canadian singer-songwriter and winner of Canada's Project Discovery
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's journey mirrors the Irish diaspora experience, particularly during the Great Famine of the 1840s when many Reilly families emigrated to North America, Australia, and Britain. This mass migration transformed Reilly from a regional Irish name to a global identifier of Irish heritage. In the United States, Reilly became associated with the hardworking Irish immigrants who helped build the nation's infrastructure while maintaining strong cultural ties. The name's evolution from exclusive surname to popular given name in the late 20th century reflects both the mainstream acceptance of Irish culture and the modern trend of using surnames as first names.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Reilly are typically characterized by a dynamic blend of courage and charisma that reflects the name's meaning of 'valiant.' They often possess natural leadership qualities combined with an approachable, friendly demeanor that makes them popular in social circles. Reillys tend to be adventurous spirits who embrace new experiences and challenges with enthusiasm, though they balance this spontaneity with a deep sense of loyalty to family and tradition.
Their Irish roots often manifest in strong communication skills, particularly storytelling and wit, making them engaging companions and effective persuaders. While they can be competitive and determined when pursuing goals, Reillys generally maintain a good-natured optimism that helps them overcome obstacles. They value authenticity in relationships and often serve as reliable confidants and supporters for their friends. The combination of their heritage and the name's modern usage creates individuals who honor tradition while embracing contemporary values, resulting in well-rounded personalities equally comfortable in formal settings and casual environments.
Modern Usage & Popularity
Reilly has experienced a significant transformation in modern usage, evolving from a traditional Irish surname to a popular given name with broad appeal across English-speaking countries. In recent decades, it has consistently ranked within the top 500 boys' names in the United States, with particular strength in regions with substantial Irish-American populations like Boston, New York, and Chicago. The name's popularity reflects several contemporary naming trends: the appeal of Irish heritage names, the fashion for surname-style first names, and the preference for names that work well across different life stages. While Reilly has become increasingly gender-neutral, it maintains stronger associations with males in traditional usage. Its modern appeal lies in its perfect balance of familiarity and distinctiveness - recognizable enough to be easily spelled and pronounced, yet uncommon enough to stand out. The name's versatility allows it to pair well with both traditional and contemporary middle names, contributing to its sustained popularity among parents seeking a name with cultural depth and modern sensibility.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Reilly embodies multiple layers of meaning that extend beyond its literal translation. The core symbolism of courage and valor connects to the name's original meaning, representing the inner strength and moral fortitude required to face life's challenges. As an Irish name, it carries the rich symbolism of Celtic culture - including resilience in adversity, the importance of storytelling and oral tradition, and the enduring power of family bonds across generations and distances. The name's transformation from surname to given name symbolizes adaptability and the successful integration of heritage into modern identity.
Reilly also represents the immigrant experience for many families, symbolizing the courage to start anew while preserving cultural roots. The symbolic oak tree, significant in Celtic mythology, resonates strongly with Reilly - both represent deep roots and strong foundations while maintaining the flexibility to weather storms and adapt to changing environments. In contemporary contexts, Reilly symbolizes the successful blending of tradition and modernity, honoring ancestral heritage while embracing progressive values. The name's journey from specific geographical origins to global usage mirrors the universal human experiences of migration, adaptation, and the creation of new identities while maintaining connection to one's origins.