JAY
Jay
Surname: Jay
Origin: English
Meaning: Derived from the Middle English personal name "Jeye," which is of Old French origin and was a diminutive of the name "Jee," itself a short form of names such as Jason or Jeremiah.
History: The surname Jay has ancient origins, dating back to medieval England. It is found throughout the country, with notable concentrations in the southwest, particularly in Cornwall. The name has varied spellings over the centuries, including Jaye, Jeay, and Jey. The Jay family can be traced back in English records to the 13th century, indicating a long history in the country.
Notable Bearers: Famous individuals with the surname Jay include British musician and record producer Jay Sean, known for his international hits, and British actress and comedian Ruby Jay, known for her work in both television and film.
Coat of Arms: The Jay coat of arms typically features a shield with a field of argent (silver) and a chief embattled azure (blue) with a gold cross. This design is representative of the family's heraldic achievements and status.
Present Day: The surname Jay continues to be present in the United Kingdom and around the world, carried by individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions. Some bearers of the name have played significant roles in various fields, contributing to the tapestry of British society.
Variants: The surname Jay has several variants, including Jaye, Jeay, and Jey. Each variant reflects historical spelling conventions and regional influences.
There are approximately 5,830 people named Jay in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,621st most common surname in Britain. Around 90 in a million people in Britain are named Jay.
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
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Caroline
- Christine
- Emma
- Gillian
- Helen
- Laura
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.