Rising since 1986, #2,765 for boys today.
Popularity of Bray since 1970
Babies named Bray per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 0 | 21 |
| 1980s | 0 | 44 |
| 1990s | 6 | 103 |
| 2000s | 0 | 117 |
| 2010s | 31 | 234 |
| 2020s | 24 | 228 |
Meaning & origin
Bray first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1970, but its popularity has been rising steadily, particularly since 1986. In 2025, it reached its peak rank of 2,765, with approximately 1 in 37,132 newborns receiving the name. Texas is the top state for Bray, reflecting a preference for short, modern-sounding names in that region. The name's appeal likely lies in its simplicity and similarity to other trendy one-syllable names. While its etymology is not firmly established, parents may be drawn to its crisp sound and surname-style feel.
Bray likely originates as an English surname derived from a place name. The Old English elements 'bræd' meaning 'broad' and 'eg' meaning 'island' or 'meadow' may combine to give 'broad meadow', or it could stem from the Old French 'brai' meaning 'mud' or 'marsh'. As a given name, it is a modern coinage, possibly influenced by the popularity of short, single-syllable names.
Where Bray is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Bray
Names that share Bray's style, for a brother or sister.
