Declining since 1999, #883 for boys today.
Popularity of Trey since 1948
Babies named Trey per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 6 |
| 1950s | 154 |
| 1960s | 727 |
| 1970s | 1,099 |
| 1980s | 3,394 |
| 1990s | 12,618 |
| 2000s | 13,890 |
| 2010s | 6,413 |
| 2020s | 2,175 |
Meaning & origin
Trey is a distinctive English word name that originated as a nickname for a third-born son, often one who carries a III suffix. It has been in use in the United States since 1948, and its popularity climbed through the late 20th century, reaching a peak year in 1999. Since then, its popularity has steadily declined. In 2025, it ranks 883rd with approximately 1 in 6350 boys receiving the name. Geographically, it has been most common in states such as South Dakota, Utah, and Kansas, reflecting a concentration in the American heartland. Trey's straightforward meaning and modern feel make it a casual, friendly choice that avoids the formality of traditional generational titles.
Trey is derived from the English word for the number three, stemming from Old French 'treis' and Latin 'tres'. It emerged as a nickname for a boy who is the third to carry a family name (e.g., John Smith III). The name began appearing in U.S. birth records in 1948 and gained popularity in the late 20th century.
Where Trey 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.
Sibling names for Trey
Names that share Trey's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Taylor, Megan, Ashley, Kelsey, Brittany, Keonna, Jakiya, Kaniya, Myesha, Jayana, Jezelle, Keyera, Lakira, Myiesha, Nashay, Shalita, Talaysia, Teirra, Tomica, Deaja, Deasha, Jarae, Remmi, Shakiera, Taleya, Treana, Treanna, Tyjah, Anecia, Dreana, Jakiera, Janaysha, Lakiah, Nychelle, Rashay, Shatora, Tenesia, Treniece, Trenyce, Treonna
Brothers: Trent, Tyler, Cody, Dustin, Derek, Keon, Tyre, Djuan, Tray, Donyae, Jemar, Jontae, Nakai, Trayon, Trea, Tyvon, Dre, Jodeci, Montrey, Tevion, Tra, Tyden, Tryce, Davaun, Tyreak, Tyri
Names like Trey
Names whose popularity has moved with Trey's over the last 50 years.
