Rory is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #105 in 1999 with 478 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2025 with 1,760 births ranking #17. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 20.5%. In 1999, approximately 1 in every 634 boys born was named Rory. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Rory is a lively Irish name traditionally understood to mean 'red king'. It feels energetic, modern, and comfortably unisex in current use.
Long used in Ireland, Rory became more broadly popular as short Celtic names gained traction internationally. Its crisp sound and strong meaning helped it travel well.