RAY
Ray
The surname Ray is of English origin, with its roots tracing back to the medieval period. The name is derived from the Old French personal name 'Rai', which itself originated from the Old Norse name 'Hrae', meaning roe deer.
The Ray surname has been found in various regions across England, with notable concentrations in counties such as Essex, Yorkshire, and Kent. Over time, the name has also spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, particularly through migration and settlement.
Throughout history, individuals bearing the Ray surname have been associated with a variety of professions and activities, including agriculture, trade, and military service. The name has also been passed down through generations, reflecting family connections and lineages.
Today, the Ray surname continues to be prevalent in Britain and other English-speaking countries. It remains a distinctive and enduring part of British heritage, symbolising the ancestral ties and cultural diversity of the nation.
There are approximately 11,844 people named Ray in the UK. That makes it the 768th most common surname in Britain. Around 182 in a million people in Britain are named Ray.
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
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Carol
- Elizabeth
- Jane
- Janet
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- 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.