Declining since 2016, #2,002 for girls today.
Popularity of Irie since 1915
Babies named Irie per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2015, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Irie's real moment was 2021.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 5 | 15 |
| 1920s | 5 | 35 |
| 1930s | 13 | 33 |
| 1940s | 0 | 16 |
| 1950s | 0 | 10 |
| 1960s | 0 | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 | 0 |
| 1980s | 5 | 0 |
| 1990s | 130 | 54 |
| 2000s | 433 | 110 |
| 2010s | 1,365 | 201 |
| 2020s | 799 | 153 |
Meaning & origin
Irie is a name with deep cultural roots in Jamaican Patois, where it conveys a sense of well-being and positivity. First recorded in the U.S. Social Security data in 1919, it saw a surge in popularity beginning in the late 1990s, likely influenced by reggae culture and the broader trend of word names. It reached its peak rank of 2002 in 2021, but has been on a downward trajectory since 2016. In 2025, approximately 1 in 16,919 baby girls were named Irie. The name is most popular in Utah, Arizona, and California, reflecting a preference for unique, positive names in those regions. Its rarity and joyful meaning make it an appealing choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible.
Irie is derived from Jamaican Patois, where it means 'pleasing' or 'good,' and is closely tied to Rastafarian culture and reggae music. It entered broader English usage in the late 20th century, particularly through the popularity of Bob Marley's music. The name gained prominence as a given name in the United States starting in the 1990s, often chosen for its positive connotation and unique sound.
Where Irie is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Irie
Names that share Irie's style, for a brother or sister.
