Rayford is a unique and distinctive male given name of American origin. Its root lies in the English surname Raymond, which itself is derived from the Germanic elements "rad" meaning "counsel" or "protection," and "mann" meaning "man." Therefore, the name Rayford could be interpreted to mean "wise protection."
The name Rayford has a rich history, although it is not as extensively documented as some more common names. It first appears in record books during the 13th century in England, where it was initially used as a surname rather than a given name.
Over time, the name evolved and became more popular as a given name in the United States, particularly in the southern states. Today, Rayford is still most commonly found in the Southern United States, with its highest concentration being in Alabama.
Despite its relatively low popularity compared to other names, Rayford carries a unique charm that sets it apart. It has a strong and commanding sound, yet it also possesses a certain warmth and approachability. This balance makes Rayford an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a solid meaning behind it.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Rayford has shown a varied pattern of popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1896 and 1945, there was an increase in the number of babies named Rayford, with peaks occurring in 1925 (98 births), 1937 (124 births), and 1944 (111 births). However, starting from the late 1940s to early 1960s, there was a noticeable decline in its popularity, with fewer than 100 births per year.
The name reached its lowest point of popularity between the mid-1970s and late 1980s, with less than 50 births annually. Since then, it has maintained a steady but low level of popularity, with an average of around 10 births per year from the early 2000s to present day (2023). Despite its fluctuation in popularity over time, it's fascinating to note that Rayford has consistently been given as a name to newborn babies in the United States for over a century, with a total of 5510 births recorded. This longevity and continued usage, albeit at varying levels, is an interesting aspect of this particular name's history in America.