Rising since 2000.
Popularity of Rayya since 1998
Babies named Rayya per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 5 |
| 2000s | 81 |
| 2010s | 74 |
| 2020s | 39 |
Meaning & origin
Rayya is a name that entered U.S. records in 1998, with its peak year of usage in 2005. It has never reached the top 1000 most popular names, but its trajectory has been rising since 2000, reflecting a growing interest in Arabic and Persian names. While it has not been associated with any top states, its appeal lies in its melodic sound and dual cultural heritage. Parents drawn to Rayya may appreciate its simplicity and connection to nature (sweet basil) and water (thirst/quenched), making it a distinctive choice for a daughter.
Rayya derives from the Arabic root r-y-y, related to thirst or watering. In Persian, it is associated with the herb rayhan (sweet basil). The name has been used in Muslim communities and appears in some South Asian contexts. Its modern usage in the U.S. has been rare but rising since the early 2000s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ray
Variants: Rayyaa, Raya
Sibling names for Rayya
Names that share Rayya's style, for a brother or sister.
