All about the name

Hays

Male

« Hays is an Irish surname derived from 'Ui Aodha', meaning 'descendant of Aodh', a brave son of legendary High King Conn. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Hayes is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "Ui Aodha," which means "descendant of Aodh." Aodh was a son of the legendary High King of Ireland, Conn of the Hundred Battles. The name Hayes is believed to have originated in County Roscommon in Ireland. The name Hayes has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous is Thomas Hayes, who served as an Irish Nationalist Member of Parliament for the East Cavan constituency from 1874 to 1885. Another notable figure is Charles Hayes, a former American politician who represented Texas's 17th congressional district from 2011 to 2013. The name Hayes has also been popular in literature and entertainment. For instance, the character Tom Hayes appears in the novel "The Power of One" by Bryce Courtenay, while the television show "Lost" features a character named Jack Shephard whose middle name is revealed to be "Hayes." In terms of its meaning and symbolism, the name Hayes is associated with strength, courage, and determination. As the descendant of Aodh, who was known for his bravery in battle, those bearing the name Hayes are often seen as individuals who possess these qualities. Today, Hayes remains a popular given name for boys and girls alike. It has been used consistently throughout history but has experienced peaks in popularity during different periods. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it was among the top 1000 names for both males and females born in the United States between 2005 and 2014. Overall, Hayes is a name rich in history and meaning, with its roots tracing back to ancient Irish mythology. It has been carried by notable figures throughout time, and continues to be a popular choice for parents today due to its strong association with strength and courage.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Hays since 1880

Total births
698
Total since 1880
Peak year
1916
24 births
in 2023
16
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+33%
vs previous 5 years