Ray: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced RAY · 1 syllable
Ray means “king; roe deer”, from English.
* As an English surname, from pet forms derived from the root of Raymond. * Also as an English surname, from Old French rei (“king”). Compare Roy, King. * Also as an English surname, from Old English ra (“roe deer”).
- Meaning
- king; roe deer
- Origin
- English
- Pronunciation
- RAY
- US rank (2025)
- #791
- US babies a year
- about 728 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1930
- Style
- Vintage, Classic
How popular is Ray?
Ray was the #791 name in the US in 2025, given to 338 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1930.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #791 |
| England & Wales | #588 |
| Scotland | #391 |
| Ireland | #639 |
| Australia | #352 |
How old are people named Ray?
Half of US adults named Ray are older than 65; most are between 25 and 87. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Sibling names for Ray
Names that real brothers and sisters of people named Ray have, from family records on Wikidata, most common first.
Names like Ray
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
Questions about Ray
What does the name Ray mean?
Ray means “king; roe deer”. It comes from English.
How do you pronounce Ray?
Ray is pronounced RAY.
How popular is the name Ray?
Ray was the #791 name in the US in 2025, given to 338 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1930.
How old are people named Ray?
Half of US adults named Ray are older than 65. Most are between 25 and 87.