15 Rad Boy Names That Start With R

Need help choosing a baby name? These boy names that start with R are among the most popular picks for the year.

We’d like to say there are no bad baby names, but we aren’t liars. Someone named their kid ABCDE.

While you’d never pick such a ridiculous name, finding the right one takes time. You can’t go wrong with any of these trendy boy names that start with R.

Ryan

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Origin: Irish

Ryan isn’t a revolutionary name. In the 1990s, it seemed like every other boy was named Ryan. Now that it’s slowed down in popularity, it’s a solid pick once more.

Ryan began as an Irish surname, before evolving into a popular unisex first name. The best part is its meaning. It’s derived from the Gaelic words righ and an, which mean “little king.”

A royal R name indeed.

Roman

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Origin: Latin

The name Roman just sounds powerful, but its origin story varies depending on who you ask. Most believe it comes from the Latin name Romanus, meaning a citizen of Rome.

It also has Hebrew roots meaning “powerful and strong.”

Ryder

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Origin: Old English

Ryder is a gender-neutral gem that means, quite literally, “horseman” or “horse rider.” You don’t have to be an equestrian to love it, though. Horseback riding symbolizes athleticism, confidence and a free-spirit, and that’s exactly what the name Ryder represents.

It peaked in popularity in 2018, but we love it. It doesn’t hurt that Flynn Ryder was one of Disney’s best (and most realistic) animated characters.

River

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Origin: English

River is a gender-neutral name with an obvious meaning. The name evokes images of rushing water carving its way through lush, tranquil forests. Rivers are symbolic of peaceful power. They’re quiet, yet their calm persistence shapes stone.

It was selected by recording artist Kelly Clarkson for her little girl River Rose, so baby River will be in good company.

Rowan

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Origin: Irish

Rowan has both Irish and English origins, but in both languages it means “red-haired.” In Arabic, it has a different meaning altogether: “a river in paradise.”

The Irish version was likely inspired from the rowan tree, best known for its bright red berries.

Bonus: Rowan Atkinson is a master of comedy, playing Mr. Bean for decades. Maybe baby Rowan will become a comedic genius.

Reed

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Origin: Old English

Reed was first an English surname meaning red. Like Rowan, it was used to describe people with red hair. It can also be spelled “Reid,” but the double-ee version also works as a nature-inspired baby name.

Reeds are grassy plants found in marshes and along the banks of quiet streams, so they’re thought to represent growth. They can also be used to weave baskets and build musical instruments.

Ronan

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Origin: Irish

The true Irish version of Ronan is spelled Rónán, but most parents in the states opt to leave out the accent marks. Ronan has an especially cute meaning: Little Seal.

It’s the name of several Irish and Scottish saints, along with the name of a centaur from the Harry Potter series. It has grown in popularity alongside its cousins Rowan and Roman, but Ronan is our favorite of the three.

Russell

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Origin: French

Russell reminds us more of the lovable boy scout from “Up” than something French, but the name does come from France. It means “red-haired.” However, it’s warm, down-to-earth vibes aren’t limited to gingers.

Think about Russell Brand and Russell Crowe. Try Russ for a cute nickname.

Riley

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Origin: English or Irish

Riley has more meanings than one. In England, it comes from the words “ryge” and “leah,” meaning wood clearing. In Ireland, however, it comes from the last name Reilly, meaning “courageous.”

In our book, it’s equal parts earthy and bold, with all the spirit of a fiery Irishman. Or woman.

Reece

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Origin: Welsh

Enthusiasm is always a good quality to have, and baby Reece will have plenty of that. This gender-neutral classic represents exuberance and joie-de-vivre.

If Reece feels too overdone, try alternate spellings like Rhys or Reese.

Rocco

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Origin: Italian

Rocco is an Italian boy’s name that starts with R, and it’s a winner for sure. It means “to rest,” which is a healthy reminder in today’s 24/7 world. It’s also a Catholic saint name.

San Rocco was known for tending the sick during a plague. He’d trek into the woods each night to be alone and recharge for more hard work the next day.

How’s that for self-care?

Romeo

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Origin: Italian

O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? The name Romeo has had numerous associations over the years. Originally, it meant “pilgrim to Rome,” but Shakespeare turned it into the most romantic boy’s name ever.

It later became synonymous with Casanova, but after several celebrities chose it in the early 2000s, it became a romance-inspired name once more.

Raphael

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Origin: Hebrew

No, we’re not talking about the turtle from “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.” Raphael has Hebrew origins meaning “God has healed”. In the Bible, it’s also the name of an archangel who was the angel of healing and the patron of doctors.

Since it became a popular choice in Spanish-speaking countries, Raphael can be considered a cross-cultural name, shared with Renaissance painter Raphael. We can’t get enough of the nickname that goes with it: Rafi.

Rory

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Origin: Irish

Lorelei Gilmore had the right idea when she picked a baby name. Rory is a unisex baby name starting with R which means “red king.” It was an ultra-popular Irish name thanks to a beloved king from the 12th century, Rory O’Connor.

In England and Wales, it’s almost exclusively given to boys. In the states, however, Rory is popular among both genders.

Remington

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Origin: English

The name Remington is deliciously preppy. It started as an English surname meaning “from the riverbank.” It was popularized as a first name by the crime drama series Remington Steele in the 1980s.

Now, it’s more of a posh, British-inspired name. Shorten it to Remy, and it also has ties to the adorable rat chef from Ratatouille.