Ryan
Meaning: Little king or descendant of the king
Origin: Irish
Gender: Boy
Rank in Ireland: #34
Total births: 13,104
History: Ryan derives from the Irish Ó Riain, meaning descendant of the little king, one of Ireland's most widespread surnames turned first name. The Ryans were a powerful sept in County Tipperary. The name took off as a first name in the late 20th century, becoming popular across all four provinces. Gerry Ryan was one of Ireland's most influential radio broadcasters on RTÉ. Ryan Tubridy later carried the torch as host of The Late Late Show.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #57 |
| Babies named Ryan in 2025 | 95 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 13,104 |
| Peak year | 2011 (685 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #6 |
| Years in records | 1971–2025 (55 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 27 spots |
Frequently asked about Ryan
What does the name Ryan mean?
Ryan means “Little king or descendant of the king” from Irish roots.
What is the origin of the name Ryan?
Ryan has Irish origin. The traditional meaning is “Little king or descendant of the king”.
How popular is Ryan in Ireland?
Ryan ranked #57 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 95 babies that year.
When was Ryan most popular?
Ryan peaked in 2011 with 685 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Ryan a boy or girl name?
Ryan is predominantly a boys' name in Ireland — over 90% of Ryans in registered births are male.
Is the name Ryan rising or falling in popularity?
Ryan has fallen 27 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Ireland — from #30 in 2020 to #57 in 2025.
How long has Ryan been recorded in Ireland?
Ryan appears in birth records in Ireland across 55 years — from 1971 through 2025.