Rory is a distinctive boys' name in United States, ranking #677 in 1996 with 242 recorded births. This places Rory in the top 6% of ranked US boys' names for the year. Its actual usage is classified as Uncommon. The name reached its all-time peak in 2025 with 1,768 births ranking #199. In 1996, approximately 1 in every 7,827 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.