What does Cray mean and where does it come from?
The name Cray has its roots in the Old English word 'crawe' which means 'crow' or relates to marshland. It has been used historically as a surname and a given name. Cray is also associated with various geographical locations in England, notably places called 'Cray' or similar, which may highlight it
Cultural significance
Cray has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the marsh.
Peak popularity
Reached #4015 in 1962 — currently #973 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cray?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cray?
Cray works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cray Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cray Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cray Claire
French influence · crisp
Cray Jane
Literary · strong
Cray Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cray right now?
Holding steady — currently #973 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #973 | 1,227 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #978 | 1,207 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #983 | 1,177 | ▲ up 11575 · +23440% births |
| 2010 | #12558 | 5 | ▼ down 2133 · -17% births |
| 2005 | #10425 | 6 | ▲ up 265 · +20% births |
| 2000 | #10690 | 5 | ▼ down 4095 · -37% births |
| 1995 | #6595 | 8 | ▲ up 1960 · +60% births |
| 1990 | #8555 | 5 | — |
The story of Cray
Cray is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1962. With 111 total births recorded, Cray remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8555 in 1990 to #973 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cray in 1962:
Cray by decade
Cray peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 6 | |
| 1980s | 11 | |
| 1990s ★ | 46 | |
| 2000s | 35 | |
| 2010s | 13 | |
💎Cray has only 111 total recorded births since 1962 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Cray?
What names sound and feel like Cray?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cray also consider these
Common questions about the name Cray
What does the name Cray mean?
Cray means "from the marsh" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Cray?
Cray is currently ranked #973 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Cray?
Cray originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Cray?
Cray is a one-syllable name pronounced K R EY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Cray sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Cray flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Cray ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.