GRAY

Gray

Origin and Etymology

Gray is a surname of English and Scottish origin. It derives from the Middle English and Old English word grāg, which means gray or grey. The surname likely started as a nickname for a person with gray hair or a pale complexion.

Variants

The surname Gray has various spelling variations including Grey, Greye, Graye, and Grray. These variants can be found in different historical records and family genealogies.

Distribution and Frequency

The Gray surname is widely distributed, with a significant concentration in the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland and England. It is also found in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Individuals

• Thomas Gray (1716-1771): English poet best known for his poem "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard".
• Alasdair Gray (1934-2019): Scottish writer and artist known for works such as "Lanark" and "Poor Things".
• Macy Gray (b. 1967): American singer-songwriter known for hits like "I Try" and "Still".

Legacy

The surname Gray has a long history and is associated with various individuals who have made significant contributions in the fields of literature, art, music, and more. It continues to be a common surname in the United Kingdom and beyond, with many descendants tracing their ancestry back to families bearing the Gray name.

Surname type: Nickname

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

• Andrew
• Christopher
• David
• James
• John
• Michael
• Paul
• Robert
• Stephen
• William

Female

• Elizabeth
• Emma
• Helen
• Jennifer
• Karen
• Linda
• Margaret
• Mary
• Nicola
• Sarah
• Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.