Wray is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Wray," which itself is believed to have been derived from the Old English word "wrag," meaning "stranger" or "traitor." The name Wray was brought to America by early Scottish settlers who immigrated to the United States in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The name Wray has a rich history dating back to medieval Scotland. It is associated with the ancient Clan Wray, which was known for its bravery and loyalty on the battlefield. The clan's coat of arms features three crescents, which symbolize the moon and are said to represent the family's ability to navigate even the darkest times.
In America, Wray became a popular given name in the late 19th century. It was often used as a boy's name but has also been given to girls in some cases. Some notable individuals with the first name Wray include American actor Wray Downes and American football player Wray Carlton.
Overall, the name Wray is a rare and unique choice that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance. It is a strong and distinctive name that commands attention and respect.
The name Wray has seen a varied number of births in the United States over the years, with fluctuations ranging from as few as 5 to as many as 28 in a single year.
Interestingly, the name Wray experienced its highest popularity between the years 1927 and 1932. During this period, the number of births reached double digits each year, peaking at 28 births in 1927. This era seems to have been particularly favorable for the name Wray.
However, the trend was not consistent throughout the entire century. After 1932, the number of annual births with the name Wray began to decline, dropping below ten births per year from 1935 onwards. This pattern continued until the late 1960s and early 1970s, during which time the number of births stayed consistently low.
There was a brief resurgence in the popularity of the name Wray between 1983 and 1989, with several years seeing more than five births. However, this uptick was short-lived, as the number of births fell back below ten per year after 1989.
In total, over the course of the period analyzed, there were 859 births in the United States given the name Wray. Despite fluctuations in popularity over time, it is clear that the name has maintained a consistent presence in American culture throughout the years.