Ruaid

Ruaid is a personal name of Irish origin. In modern usage, it is typically masculine and may be used as a standalone given name or as a shortened form of Ruaidhrí (Ruaidhri).

Origin and meaning: The name derives from Old Irish Ruadri, formed from the elements rua meaning red and rí meaning king. It is commonly interpreted as “red king” or “famous king,” a combination associated with noble or royal imagery in Gaelic culture.

Usage and variants: Ruaid is most often encountered in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities, though it is less common than the fuller Ruaidhrí. Variants and related forms include Ruaid, Ruaidhri, Ruaidh, Ruaidrí, and the Anglicized Rory. Pronunciation and spelling can vary by dialect and family tradition.

Historical notes: The root Ruaidri appears in medieval Gaelic royalty. Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair, who died in 1198, is one of the best-known bearers of the name and is regarded as the last High King of Ireland. The shorter form Ruaid is more prominent in contemporary given-name practice than in early records.

See also: Ruaidrí, Ruaidhri, Rory.