Riley

Rye clearing (English); descendant of Raghailleach (Irish surname).

Riley has two distinct roots behind its use as a first name. The English surname comes from place names meaning a clearing where rye grows. The Irish surname is related to Reilly and points to descent from Raghailleach. The meaning of that older personal name is uncertain, so “brave” is not a secure translation of Riley's Irish origin. In English, Riley is used for both boys and girls. It is pronounced RYE-lee, in two syllables, with the emphasis at the beginning. Rylee is an alternative spelling; choosing it changes the written shape rather than giving the name a different linguistic origin. The broad opening sound followed by a light -lee gives Riley a buoyant, friendly feel. Its surname background adds substance to a name that can otherwise sound quite informal. For someone drawn to contemporary styling without an elaborate form, that balance may be its main appeal.

Etymology: An English-language given name transferred from surnames with separate English and Irish origins. The English place-name elements are rȳge, rye, and lēah, a woodland clearing; the Irish line comes through Ó Raghailligh.