Ryan is a name known to many of us, but perhaps the history of this popular surname may not be that well known. So, let us dissect this historic Irish surname for you.
As the eighth most common surname in Ireland, and one of the most popular names around the world, the name Ryan has a lot of meaning behind it.
Not only is it one of the most popular Irish surnames. Rather, it is also a popular given name around the world.
If you have always wondered where this popular surname originated, then stay tuned for some facts, history, and captivating insights into this ever-popular family name.
Meaning – many different theories
Like many Irish first and last names, Ryan has a wealth of history and meaning behind it. After all, the Irish language stems back centuries, and these names all originated from there.
When it comes to the meaning of the last name Ryan (Rian in Irish), you may be surprised to know that the true meaning is unknown. However, there are many theories as to where this name could have come from, which are fascinating in their own right.
Some such theories are that it is related to the Old Irish word ‘rían’, meaning ‘ocean’ or ‘water’, while other theories have suggested that it may stem from the Irish word for a ‘king’, which is ‘rí’.
Interestingly enough, it is said that the true meaning of Ryan was never documented because it is so old that it existed before Irish records even began.
Origin ‒ the history behind the name
When it comes to the origin of Ryan (Rian), there are, of course, several different tales. However, it is said to be derived from other Irish surnames such as O’ Rian, which means the descendant of Rian, and Mulryan (Ó Maoilriain), which means the descendent of the follower of Rian.
Other sources have also claimed that Ryan means ‘little king’ or ‘illustrious’. However, whatever the true meaning and origin of the surname Ryan, we know that it is one of the oldest names in Ireland, which is something to be in awe of.
It is also said that the first record of the clan Ó Maoilriain, one of the ancient families of Ireland from where the name Rian or Ryan has been derived, first occurred in County Tipperary around the 14th century.
At this time, the clan settled in or around the areas between counties Limerick and Tipperary. This is where their clan grew in numbers.
The expansion of this family led to the evolution of the popular phrase, “One could hardly throw a stone down a street in Tipperary without hitting a Ryan.”
Popularity and alternative spellings – the different forms of Ryan
Ryan is, of course, incredibly popular in Ireland as a surname but also as a first name, as many other Irish surnames have evolved to become.
It is the eighth most common name in Ireland. However, it is exceptionally popular worldwide, especially across the English-speaking world, due to emigration.
The Irish name Ryan has taken on some variations over the years, too. Ryan is said to have derived from names such as O’Rian, Mulryan, O’Ryan, O’Mulrian, and Rian, all of which were changed through the ages and a person’s lifetime. However, some of these variations still exist today.
It was common practice during emigration to change your name when arriving in a new country to make integration easier. So, many people who arrived with the name O’Ryan changed it to Ryan.
The Middle Ages was a specific period when many spelling variations were witnessed, and the Irish name was no exception.
The surname is so popular these days that many of us will know someone with this as their first or last name, and most of us will know several celebrities bearing this ancient name. So, let us take a look and see how many of these you know.
Famous people with the last name Ryan – famous bearers of the surname
Meg Ryan: This American actress needs no introduction. She is well-known among fans of movies such as Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally.
Gerry Ryan: This former presenter of Irish radio and television is known to all Irish people who listened to 2FM and a range of Irish shows Gerry Ryan hosted.
Lee Ryan: Famed for being one of the members of the British boyband Blue.
Matt Ryan: An American football player.
Amy Ryan: An American actress known for her roles in Bridge of Spies and Changeling. She is also a two-time Tony Award and one-time Academy Award nominee.
Debbie Ryan: This American singer and actress have appeared on shows such as Barney and Friends and Disney’s The Suite Life on Deck.
Notable mentions
Katherine Ryan: A world-famous Canadian-British comedian known for her appearances on many British panel shows and TV series.
George Ryan: George Ryan was a well-known Irish playwright and socialist.
Jake Ryan: Fictional character from the John Hughes movie Sixteen Candles.
William Ryan: American voice actor, singer, and comedian.
FAQs about the Irish surname Ryan
What does Ryan mean?
It is said to mean ‘little king’, ‘illustrious’, ‘ocean’ or ‘water’. However, the specific true meaning is so ancient it is not known.
How do you spell Ryan in Irish?
Ryan is the Anglicised form of the Irish name Rian.
Is the surname Ryan Irish?
Ryan is of Irish origin.
If you bear the name or one of its derivatives, then hopefully, now you have a greater insight into the vast history and heritage of this ancient Irish name.
The fact that this name goes back to times before records even existed and that it is still a popular surname and one of the most common given baby names today proves that it is a strong traditional name that will go on for many years to come.
