MallowbyNames

Rayna

RAY-nuh · Of debated origin; possibly a variant of Raina (meaning 'queen' in Slavic), or a feminine form of Ray (derived from Raymond, meaning 'wise protector').

2025 rank (girls)
#795
Babies named in 2025
342
Peak popularity
2019
2025 frequency
1 in 4,700 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 1988

Rising since 1988, #795 for girls today.

Popularity of Rayna since 1932

Babies named Rayna per year in U.S. Social Security records.

15029944919602000Most births 2019Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1930s41
1940s165
1950s272
1960s368
1970s994
1980s1,008
1990s1,540
2000s3,051
2010s3,657
2020s2,290

Meaning & origin

Rayna is a name with a dual heritage that appeals to parents seeking a melodic yet strong choice. First recorded in the U.S. in 1932, it has consistently risen in popularity, with a trajectory that shows increasing use since 1988. In 2025, it ranked 795th, with a frequency of 1 in 4700 births. Its peak year was 2019, reflecting a growing appreciation for its lyrical sound. The name shows regional preference in states like Mississippi, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Rayna's nickname Ray adds a unisex option, while variants like Raina and Reina offer alternative spellings. Its meanings of 'queen' or 'wise protector' give it an empowering quality, making it a stylish choice for modern families.

Rayna may have multiple origins. It is often considered a variant of Raina, a feminine name of Slavic origin meaning 'queen'. Alternatively, it could be a feminine form of Ray, a short form of Raymond, from the Germanic elements 'ragin' (counsel) and 'mund' (protection). The name has seen consistent use in English-speaking countries since the early 20th century.

Where Rayna is most popular

Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

2020s
Fewermore per 100k girlstoo few births

Rayna” around the world

Where Rayna lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.

  • France

    20

    babies in 2024

  • Ireland

    12

    babies in 2025

Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland).

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Ray, Rae

Variants: Raina, Reyna, Reina

Sibling names for Rayna

Names that share Rayna's style, for a brother or sister.

Names like Rayna

Names whose popularity has moved with Rayna's over the last 50 years.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

R is for Rayna, our favorite little girl.

R is for Rayna…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Rayna's letter becomes Rayna's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Rayna's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Rayna mean?
Rayna is often interpreted as 'queen' from Slavic roots, but it may also be a feminine form of Ray, meaning 'wise protector' from Germanic origins.
How popular is the name Rayna?
Rayna ranked 795th in 2025, which means approximately 1 in 4700 newborn girls received the name. Its popularity has been rising since 1988, with a peak in 2019.
Is Rayna a boy or girl name?
Rayna is almost exclusively used as a girl's name, as indicated by its Social Security data.