Rayan

Updated: April 7, 2022 by MomsWhoThink Staff

Rayan, sometimes spelled Rayyan, is a popular name in Arabic cultures, and in recent years, it's been on the rise in the United States. It's even a top 100 name in parts of Europe. Some may see it as a fresh alternative to Ryan, and many people even pronounce it that way. Either way, look for Rayan one to stick around through the 2020s. It pairs well with a variety of middle names, and its meaning may be especially symbolic to new parents of the Islamic faith.

Meaning of the name Rayan:

Arabic: Heaven's gate, rich in water

Origin of the name Rayan:

Rayan is a Muslim name taken from Islam. Ar-Rayan is thought to be the name of one of the gates to paradise. People of faith can enter if they fast during Ramadan.

Symbolism of the name Rayan:

Because of Rayan's association with Islam, new parents may see the name as symbolic of their faith. The name is also thought to mean “rich in water” or refer to fertile land, so new parens may find symbolism there as well.

Style of the name Rayan:

Traditional, international

Gender of the name Rayan:

Rayan is a boy's baby name.

Pronunciation of the name Rayan:

RAY-yon or RYE-an

Number of syllables in the name Rayan:

Two

Emotion evoked from the name Rayan:

The baby name Rayan evokes images of someone who is free-spirited and is able to think quickly on his feet.

Alternative spellings for the name Rayan:

Rayyan

Nicknames for the name Rayan:

Popularity of the name Rayan:

According to the Social Security Administration, Rayan has been a top 1,000 baby name for boys since 2007. It was most popular in 2016 when it ranked at number 560. It last ranked at number 614 in 2020.