Boy Name · Irish Origin
Ryan
Last reviewed: June 2026
Considering Ryan? It is a boy name whose meaning is "Little king", rooted in Irish naming tradition, and ranks in our Top 100 popularity tier. Phonetically it shares territory with Rian, but stands on its own.
Names like Ryan
- Rian — meaning, origin and popularity
- Rayan — meaning, origin and popularity
- Rowan — meaning, origin and popularity
- Rohan — meaning, origin and popularity
- Rhyan — meaning, origin and popularity
- Ryne — meaning, origin and popularity
- Ryon — meaning, origin and popularity
- Rowen — meaning, origin and popularity
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Frequently asked about Ryan
What does the name Ryan mean?
Ryan means "Little king" and is of Irish origin.
What is the origin of Ryan?
Ryan originates in Irish naming tradition. Names of Irish origin often share recognizable sounds and cultural roots that shape how the name reads today.
How do you pronounce Ryan?
Ryan has 4 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable. Tap the pronunciation player on this page to hear it spoken aloud.
Is Ryan a boy's or girl's name?
Ryan is primarily used as a boy's name in US records, though usage can vary by region and era.
How popular is Ryan in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Ryan sits in the Top 100 tier — a widely-loved, instantly-recognizable pick.
What names are similar to Ryan?
Names that share Ryan's sound and style include Rian, Rayan, Rowan, Rohan, Rhyan. Open the "Names like Ryan" rail on this page for the full list.