Holding steady.
Popularity of Cray since 1962
Babies named Cray per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 6 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 11 |
| 1990s | 46 |
| 2000s | 35 |
| 2010s | 13 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Cray is an exceptionally rare given name in the United States, first recorded in 1962. It reached its peak popularity in 1993, but even then it never entered the top 1000 names. The name has maintained a stable trajectory, never experiencing a dramatic rise or fall. While top states for the name are not recorded due to its rarity, Cray remains a distinctive choice. Its origins are unclear, possibly an English surname or a modern invention, which adds to its enigmatic appeal. With almost no famous bearers and minimal cultural footprint, Cray offers a blank slate for a child.
Cray likely originated as a surname from places called Cray in England, possibly derived from the Old English word 'crēa' meaning 'crow' or the Celtic river name Cray. As a given name, it emerged in the mid-20th century, possibly as a shortened form of names like Crayton or as a modern invention. Its usage has been rare but consistent, peaking in the early 1990s.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Craye
Sibling names for Cray
Names that share Cray's style, for a brother or sister.
