Find out how popular the first name Roary has been for the last 40 years (from 1982 to 2021) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Roary by gender

Based on the last 40 years of data, Roary is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 92% of people named Roary being male.

For the most recent data in 2021, there were 5 male babies and 5 female babies born with the name Roary.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 5 baby girls were named Roary in 2021, despite it being a predominantly male name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Roary

The name Roary is a relatively modern invention, likely derived from the English word "roar," which is an onomatopoeic term used to describe the deep, loud sound made by certain animals, particularly lions or other large felines. While the exact origin of the name is unclear, it is believed to have emerged in the late 20th century, probably as a playful or whimsical name choice inspired by the idea of strength, power, and fierceness associated with the roar of a mighty beast.

Despite its recent coinage, the name Roary has managed to gain some traction in various parts of the English-speaking world. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name being used can be found in the 1986 children's book "Roary the Lion Cub" by author and illustrator Judith Edmunds. In this delightful tale, the titular character, a young lion named Roary, embarks on a series of adventures, captivating young readers with his courage and curiosity.

It is worth noting that while the name Roary itself may be relatively new, the concept of using animal-inspired names is not unprecedented. Throughout history, various cultures have embraced the practice of naming children after animals, often as a way to imbue them with desired qualities or to honor the natural world. For instance, the name Leo, derived from the Latin word for lion, has been in use for centuries and is widely recognized across many languages and cultures.

One of the earliest notable individuals to bear the name Roary was Roary Laidlaw, a Scottish professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper for various clubs in the 1970s and 1980s, including Hibernian and Dunfermline Athletic. Born in 1953, Laidlaw's sporting career spanned over a decade, and his unique name likely contributed to his memorable presence on the pitch.

Another individual of note was Roary Maguire, an Irish actor and musician born in 1978. Maguire has appeared in various television shows and films, including the popular series "Game of Thrones," where he portrayed a minor character. His distinctive name has undoubtedly added to his recognizability in the entertainment industry.

In the realm of literature, Roary Gallagher was an American author and journalist who gained recognition for his work on social and political issues. Born in 1927, Gallagher's writings often focused on themes of justice and equality, reflecting his commitment to causes that echoed the strength and power symbolized by his unique first name.

Lastly, it is worth mentioning Roary Pryor, an Australian artist and sculptor whose works have been featured in numerous exhibitions and galleries across the country. Born in 1962, Pryor's creative endeavors have been celebrated for their bold and expressive nature, perhaps inspired by the powerful imagery associated with his name.

While the name Roary may be relatively young in its usage, it has already managed to make its mark on various fields, from sports and entertainment to literature and art. As a name that evokes images of strength, power, and the majesty of the natural world, it is likely that Roary will continue to capture the imagination of parents and individuals seeking a distinctive and memorable moniker.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Roary was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Roary, please contact us.

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