Rae

Origin and Meaning

'Rae' is a surname of British origin, deriving from the Old English word 'ra', which means a roe deer. The name may have been used as a nickname for someone who resembled a deer in some way or was associated with deer hunting.

Distribution and Popularity

The surname Rae is found primarily in Scotland, particularly in areas such as the Borders region, Aberdeenshire, and Glasgow. It is also present in England, Ireland, and other English-speaking countries due to migration.

Historical Significance

The Rae surname has an ancient history, with records dating back to the Middle Ages. The name is associated with various notable figures throughout history, including scholars, politicians, and artists.

Variants and Associated Names

Variants of the surname Rae include Ray, Rea, and Wray. It may also be linked with similar surnames such as Roe and Ree.

Coat of Arms

The Rae family coat of arms typically features symbols associated with courage, loyalty, and heraldic tradition. These include elements such as shields, crest, and mottoes which reflect the family's values and history.

Modern Day

In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Rae can be found across various professions and walks of life. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving its heritage and legacy.

There are approximately 13,142 people named Rae in the UK. That makes it the 682nd most common surname in Britain. Around 202 in a million people in Britain are named Rae.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Anne
  • Caroline
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Helen
  • Jennifer
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

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

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