riley

¹ American  

[rahy-lee] / ˈraɪ li /

adjective

Chiefly Northern and North Midland U.S.

1. turbid; roily.

2. angry; vexed.

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Riley ² American  

[rahy-lee] / ˈraɪ li /

noun

1. James Whitcomb 1849–1916, U.S. poet.

2. life of. life of Riley.

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Riley ¹ British  

/ ˈraɪlɪ /

noun

1. Bridget ( Louise ). born 1931, English painter, best known for her black-and-white op art paintings of the 1960s

2. Gina . born 1961, Australian television actress and writer, best known for playing 'Kim' in the comedy series Kath & Kim (2002–07)

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Riley ² British  

/ ˈraɪlɪ /

noun

1. a luxurious and carefree existence

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riley Idioms  

1. see life of riley.

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Etymology

Origin of riley

An Americanism dating back to 1795–1805; rile + -y ¹

Example Sentences

But everything has its drawbacks, the water there hain't like Jonesville water; I don't say it to twit 'em, but it is a solemn truth, the water is riley, they can't dispute it.

From Samantha at the St. Louis Exposition by Holley, Marietta

I'm a real hoss, I am, and I get kinder riley with those critters.

From Our American Cousin by Taylor, Tom

"Well, it looked kind of riley if you got under the soap that was floatin' on top," Johnnie admitted.

From The Rich Little Poor Boy by Gates, Eleanor

"Wheu!" ejaculated the sailor, picking up a bit of shingle from the ground, and searching for a jackknife which jingled against the silver crown in his pocket, "getting riley, now, ain't you?"

From Silent Struggles by Stephens, Ann S. (Ann Sophia)

Oh! don't you get riley, you and I ran against each other when I came in, but we'll be friends yet.

From Our American Cousin by Taylor, Tom