US Popularity Rank: 15941

Origin: Irish

Meaning: Royal bard

Riordan is a boy’s name and surname of Irish origin. It’s the anglicized version of the Irish surname Ó Ríoghbhárdáin, which combines the words rí (king) with bárd (bard, poet) to mean “royal bard.” In Irish culture, bards were some of the most powerful members of society, with the ability to destroy reputations with one scathing poem. Even kings weren't safe from their mockery! Bards were also the keepers of history, using songs and poetry to pass it on as the Irish had little written language until the 5th century. If you’re hoping baby will grow up to be a poet, musician, storyteller, or historian, Riordan could be the name for them! Fittingly, famous Irish musician Dolores O’Riordan of The Cranberries bore this surname.