The name Rilee has emerged as a popular choice for baby girls in recent decades. But how popular is the name Rilee, really? Let’s delve into the history, popularity trends, and alternative names to uncover everything you need to know about this charming moniker.
Rilee Name Popularity: A Deep Dive
To understand the popularity of Rilee, we can examine data from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Looking at the historical data, the name remained largely absent from the charts until the early 1990s. This suggests that Rilee is a relatively modern invention or a revival of a previously obscure name.
Here’s a breakdown of Rilee’s popularity over the years:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1991 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1992 | 3,496 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1993 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1994 | 2,798 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1995 | 3,119 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1996 | 3,322 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1997 | 2,812 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1998 | 2,399 | 18 | 0.0012% |
| 1999 | 2,035 | 29 | 0.0019% |
| 2000 | 2,060 | 31 | 0.002% |
| 2001 | 1,905 | 39 | 0.0026% |
| 2002 | 1,832 | 44 | 0.0029% |
| 2003 | 1,574 | 66 | 0.0043% |
| 2004 | 1,546 | 70 | 0.0046% |
| 2005 | 1,370 | 97 | 0.0063% |
| 2006 | 1,426 | 95 | 0.0061% |
| 2007 | 1,512 | 86 | 0.0055% |
| 2008 | 1,296 | 124 | 0.008% |
| 2009 | 1,451 | 94 | 0.0063% |
| 2010 | 1,289 | 116 | 0.008% |
| 2011 | 1,535 | 75 | 0.0053% |
| 2012 | 1,434 | 88 | 0.0062% |
| 2013 | 1,760 | 50 | 0.0035% |
| 2014 | 1,598 | 65 | 0.0045% |
| 2015 | 1,528 | 72 | 0.0049% |
| 2016 | 1,566 | 66 | 0.0046% |
| 2017 | 2,344 | 20 | 0.0014% |
| 2018 | 1,877 | 36 | 0.0026% |
| 2019 | 1,715 | 45 | 0.0033% |
| 2020 | 2,533 | 26 | 0.002% |
| 2021 | 2,942 | 18 | 0.0015% |
| 2022 | 4,641 | 6 | 0.0005% |
| 2023 | 3,735 | 11 | 0.0008% |
Source: SSA.gov
Key Observations:
- Late 20th-Century Emergence: The name’s rise to prominence began in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
- Fluctuating Popularity: The rank and number of births have fluctuated over the years, indicating shifts in trends.
- Recent Trend: While there was a surge in 2022, the number decreased in 2023. This shows an ongoing evolution in the name’s popularity.
Diving Deeper: The Meaning and Origin of Rilee
While the provided data focuses on popularity, it doesn’t delve into the name’s meaning or origin. "Rilee" is often considered a variant of "Riley."
Riley:
- Origin: Irish, English
- Meaning: "Valiant," "Brave," "Rye clearing" (from the Irish surname O’Reilly)
The name Riley, and therefore likely Rilee, carries connotations of courage and resilience, potentially contributing to its appeal. It can also be interpreted as having a connection to nature, referencing a rye field.
Names Similar to Rilee: Exploring Alternatives
If you’re drawn to the sound and feel of Rilee but want to explore other options, several names share similar qualities. These alternatives can be grouped into names that sound like Rilee and names that are similar in style.
Names That Sound Like Rilee:
| Name | Meaning | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Raelee | ||
| Railey | Roe deer’s meadow | English |
| Raley | Roe deer’s meadow | English |
| Rilla | Small brook | German |
| Rylee | Rye clearing | Irish |
| Ryley | Courageous | Irish |
| Rylie | Rye clearing | Irish |
Names Similar in Style to Rilee:
| Name | Meaning | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Ailee | ||
| Bilee | English | |
| Kilee | Near the church (or the wood) | Irish |
These names offer variations on the sound and origin of Rilee, providing a range of choices for parents seeking a similar, yet distinct, name.
Rilee: A Modern Name with Irish Roots
In conclusion, Rilee is a modern name with possible Irish origins. It conveys a sense of courage and connection to nature. While it wasn’t popular in the early 20th century, it has gained traction in recent decades, establishing itself as a charming and stylish choice for baby girls. Whether you’re drawn to its sound, meaning, or simply its modern appeal, Rilee offers a compelling option for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name. The fluctuating popularity of the name, as seen in the SSA data, highlights the ever-changing nature of naming trends, but the enduring qualities of Rilee suggest it will remain a relevant and attractive choice for years to come.
