Holding steady, #9,714 for boys today.
Popularity of Rafay since 1996
Babies named Rafay per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 23 |
| 2000s | 97 |
| 2010s | 103 |
| 2020s | 70 |
Meaning & origin
Rafay is a modern given name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1996, making it a relatively recent addition to the American naming landscape. Its popularity peaked in 2009, after which it has maintained a stable presence. As of 2025, the name ranks 9,714th, with an estimated 1 in 244,011 newborns receiving the name. Its origins are uncertain, but it may be a creative variant or a borrowing from other naming traditions. The name has not been recorded in any top state lists, indicating its use is scattered across the country. Rafay remains a distinctive choice, appealing to parents seeking a name that is modern yet simple in sound.
Rafay likely emerged as a modern given name, possibly a variant of Rafi or a shortened form of names like Rafayel. Its use in the United States has been recorded since 1996, with peak popularity in 2009. The name remains uncommon, consistent with many modern coinages that draw on familiar phonetic elements.
Sibling names for Rafay
Names that share Rafay's style, for a brother or sister.
