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Ridley
♂ Boy
Pronounced RID-lee /ˈrɪd.li/High
Meaning: reed clearing, cleared meadowMedium
In 30 seconds: Ridley is an Old English surname name meaning reed clearing. A cool two-syllable name with historic appeal, associated with director Ridley Scott.
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Origin MediumOld English
Meaningreed clearing, cleared meadow
U.S. rank (2024)#2248 ↘ Falling
2024 U.S. births64 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2021
Total births (all-time)≈ 1,457
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Ridley is an Old English place name from hreid (reed) + leah (meadow), meaning reed meadow.
Ridley is used as a given name for both boys and girls, with increasing use for girls. It carries a cool artistic association through director Ridley Scott.
Did you know? Sir Ridley Scott (born 1937) directed Alien, Blade Runner, Gladiator, and The Martian — making Ridley a name synonymous with cinematic grandeur and visionary storytelling.
Overall data confidence 78%
Behind the Name: Ridley — name etymology referenceUS Social Security Name Database — U.S. popularity data
Variations
RidleighRidleeRidge
Nicknames
Rid
Famous Bearers
- ★Ridley Scott (1937–present)British film director of Alien, Blade Runner, and Gladiator.
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Frequently Asked
What does Ridley mean?
Ridley means reed clearing, cleared meadow.
How do you pronounce Ridley?
Ridley is pronounced RID-lee (/ˈrɪd.li/), with 2 syllables.
Is Ridley a boy's name?
Yes, Ridley is used as a boy's name.
How popular is the name Ridley?
Old English place name; reed meadow meaning well established.