Rafferty

Irish, "floodtide"

As dapper as it is playful, Rafferty is a stylish surname choice, with plenty of flair and energy. A favorite in England and Wales and on Nameberry, it remains a rarity in the US, where it was given to just 19 boys in a recent count!

For me, it’s one of those names that brings to mind rushing rivers, fallen leaves, and expansive forests — perfect alongside names like Shepherd, Wilder, Murphy, and Callahan. It has an outdoorsy, nature-related meaning to match this imagery too, deriving as it does from an Irish name meaning “floodtide”.

Also blending in the arty feel of Raphael and the preppy vibes of Montgomery and Bellamy, Rafferty is the pleasant mix of elegance and rough-and-tumble.

Plus nicknames Raffy, Rafa, and Rafe!

Do you want to see your favorite last-name-as-a-first-name featured on Nameberry of the Day? Just drop me an email at grace@nameberry.com and let me know why you love the name.