Ruairi is an ancient Irish name of Norse origin, derived from 'Rödir,' which means 'red-haired'. It was popular among the Norsemen who settled in Ireland during the Viking Age. The name gained prominence through Ruairí Ó Conchúir, High King of Ireland from 1142 to 1166. Ruairi is composed of two elements: 'Ruadh,' meaning red or ruddy, and '-rí,' signifying a king or ruler. This name has been handed down through generations in Irish families, preserving its rich historical heritage.
The name Ruairi experienced a significant increase in popularity from the late 1990s to early 2020s, with a notable spike occurring in 2020 and 2022.