“ewe, or a form of the name Rachel, or a ray of light”
English origin · Unisex name
♂ 4% boys♀ 96% girls
#1204US 2023
199Births / yr
↓Falling
23.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.04% of births at peak
How to pronounce Rae
RAY
/ˈreɪ/ · stress on RAY · 1 syllable
“ewe, or a form of the name Rachel, or a ray of light”
English origin · Unisex name
What does Rae mean and where does it come from?
Rae is often considered a diminutive or variant of the name Rachel, derived from Hebrew רָחֵל (Raḥel), meaning 'ewe.' The name Rae can also be interpreted as referring to a 'ray of light' or sunlight in English contexts. It became popular in the 20th century and is often used in modern, trendy namin
Cultural significance
Rae has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of ewe, or a form of the name rachel, or a ray of light.
Declining — down 34 spots — currently #1204 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1204 · Top 0.89%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1204
199
▼ down 34 · -4% births
2022
#1170
207
▼ down 123 · -14% births
2021
#1047
241
▲ up 22 · +6% births
2020
#1069
228
▲ up 986 · +140% births
2015
#2055
95
▲ up 919 · +67% births
2010
#2974
57
▼ down 395 · -14% births
2005
#2579
66
▼ down 420 · -11% births
2000
#2159
74
▼ down 657 · -30% births
1995
#1502
105
▼ down 194 · -15% births
1990
#1308
124
▼ down 50 · +15% births
1985
#1258
108
▼ down 262 · -27% births
1980
#996
147
▼ down 138 · -6% births
1975
#858
156
▼ down 244 · -45% births
1970
#614
282
▼ down 77 · -10% births
1965
#537
314
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Rae
1900Rank #403
366
#979
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Rae
Rae has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 23,367 babies have received this name. Once ranked #573 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1204 in 2023. Rae is used for both genders: 96% female and 4% male.
Rae means "ewe, or a form of the name Rachel, or a ray of light" — a name rooted in English 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 Rae?
Rae is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Rae?
Rae originates from English tradition. English 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 Rae?
Rae is a one-syllable name pronounced R EY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Rae sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Rae flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Rae ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Rae
For a sister
Rae & Alice♡
Rae & Cora♡
Rae & Daisy♡
Rae & Eliza♡
For a brother
Rae & William♡
Rae & Samuel♡
Rae & Cora♡
Rae & Daisy♡
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