Rising since 1991, #1,418 for boys today.
Popularity of Gray since 1885
Babies named Gray per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1880s | 0 | 17 |
| 1890s | 0 | 15 |
| 1900s | 0 | 38 |
| 1910s | 18 | 140 |
| 1920s | 5 | 195 |
| 1930s | 5 | 158 |
| 1940s | 5 | 229 |
| 1950s | 11 | 333 |
| 1960s | 0 | 306 |
| 1970s | 0 | 203 |
| 1980s | 5 | 258 |
| 1990s | 12 | 433 |
| 2000s | 79 | 618 |
| 2010s | 334 | 1,296 |
| 2020s | 202 | 927 |
Meaning & origin
Gray is a concise, color-inspired given name that has been in use in the United States since at least 1885. After a period of relative obscurity, it began a steady rise in popularity starting in 1991, reflecting a broader trend toward surname-styled and nature-toned names. In 2025, Gray ranked 1418th nationally, with an estimated 1 in every 13,344 boys receiving the name. Its peak year so far was 2023, suggesting continued upward momentum. Geographically, Gray shows particular popularity in the southern states, appearing most frequently in Alabama, Tennessee, and South Carolina. As a variant of the surname Grey, the name carries understated elegance and is often chosen for its simple, modern feel.
Gray originated as an English surname derived from the Old English word grǣg, meaning 'gray.' It was initially used as a nickname for someone with gray hair or a pale complexion. As a given name, Gray emerged in the 19th century and has seen consistent use, particularly in the United States. It is related to the Scottish surname Gray and shares roots with the modern color name.
Where Gray is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Grey
Sibling names for Gray
Names that share Gray's style, for a brother or sister.
