Bray Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name Bray originates from Old English, meaning 'to shout' or 'to cry out'. It has evolved through various forms and is associated with a strong, confident image. There are no direct biblical references, but it has gained popularity since the Middle Ages, often used as a surname. Notable individuals with this name include athletes and entertainers.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Bray"
Pronunciation
/breɪ/
Origin
Old English
Etymology
The name Bray is derived from the Old English word 'bræg', which means 'to shout' or 'to cry out'. It may also have connections to the word 'bray', referring to the sound made by a donkey.
Meaning
to shout, to cry out
Language Evolution
Bray (Modern English), Bræg (Old English), Brah (Old Norse)
Historical Usage
Bray gained popularity as a surname in England during the Middle Ages, often associated with geographical locations or occupations.
Variants & Derivatives
Brayden, Braylon, Braydenn
Modern Popularity & Image
Today, Bray is perceived as a strong and straightforward name, often associated with confidence and individuality.
Famous People
Bray Wyatt (WWE wrestler), Braylon Edwards (former NFL player), Bray Amaro (NFL player)
📊 Bray Name Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Bray Name Visualizations
✨ Bray Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 46 peak births in 2024
Geographic Spread
Popular across 2 US states, with strongest presence in Texas
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 6 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Bray" - Complete Guide (4 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Bray". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 4 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Bray" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Bray"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Bray"
"Bray" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 7574th of 10718 | 21 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 5970th of 16616 | 106 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 5844th of 24088 | 208 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 3620th of 23106 | 366 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 28314th of 35406 | 13 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 16629th of 30306 | 43 |
Regional Popularity of "Bray" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - |
51.72% 3528th/6822 |
- |
Regional Popularity of "Bray" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity of "Bray"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Bray" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Bray" in the United States
The name Bray is most popular in Texas, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Generation Alpha generation in the South region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Bray has been stalled for male in South. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in South. Across generations, 'Bray' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 7574th out of 10718 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 5970th out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 5844th out of 24088 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 3620th out of 23106 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 28314th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 16629th out of 30306 names. Discover how the name 'Bray' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.