Dray is a unique and distinctive name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Drake," which is believed to have originated from the Old English word "draca," meaning "dragon." The name Drake itself was often given as a nickname to someone who was considered brave or courageous, perhaps because they were born during the time of year when dragons are said to be most active.
The name Dray has been used in Scotland for centuries and is still quite common today. While it was originally more prevalent among men, in recent years it has also become popular as a girls' name. This is likely due to its distinctive sound and the fact that it is relatively uncommon compared to many other names.
One notable historical figure with the name Dray is John Drake, who was a Scottish poet and songwriter from the 18th century. His work is still celebrated today and has had a significant impact on Scottish literature.
Overall, the name Dray is a unique and memorable choice for a child's name, with a rich history and meaningful origins. Its dragon-inspired meaning adds an element of mystery and intrigue to this beautiful Scottish name.
The name Dray has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1974 and 2022, there have been a total of 287 babies named Dray, with the number of births varying annually.
The peak years for the name Dray were between 1990 and 1993, with 16 births in 1990, 18 births in 1993 being the highest. This period seems to have been a particularly popular time for the name.
Interestingly, there has been a resurgence of the name Dray in recent years, with 7 births recorded in both 2019 and 2022. This indicates that while the name may not have been as popular in the intervening years, it is still being chosen by parents today.
Overall, while the name Dray has had its ups and downs in popularity over the decades, it continues to be a choice for parents in the United States.