Ray: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days celebrate the feast day of a saint associated with a person's name. The name Ray possesses an interesting history, often stemming from a powerful Germanic origin meaning "protection." Its sound evokes a positive and confident mood, fitting its primary masculine identity. Ray's name day is celebrated on January 23rd in the USA. This day provides an occasion to recognize the traditional and enduring nature of this classic name.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Ray's name day is celebrated
on January 23 in the USA.
The Story Behind This Name
The given name Ray gained significant popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, reaching its peak usage around the 1920s and 1930s. Although its usage decreased somewhat in subsequent decades, it remains a consistent choice, recognized as a classic and approachable name. Globally, particularly in English-speaking regions like Canada, the UK, and Australia, "Ray" is used either as a standalone given name or as a short form of longer names such as Raymond. Its history as a given name dates back to the early modern period, evolving from a surname or a nickname derived from other names. The name carries a sense of timelessness that has kept it relevant across generations in various cultures.
Name origin and meaning
The name Ray primarily functions as a diminutive of the Germanic name Raymond, which translates to "counsel-protection" or "mighty protection." It also stands alone as a short form derived from the English word "ray," which signifies a beam of light. This association with light evokes feelings of brightness and warmth. While often considered a modern English name in its shortened form, its roots trace back to medieval Germanic elements, combining "ragin" (counsel) and "mund" (protection). The standalone name "Ray" carries a distinct meaning separate from its longer counterpart.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Ray is predominantly classified as a male given name worldwide, especially in North America and Europe where it gained popularity as a standalone name. While "Ray" itself is rarely used for females, names containing "Ray" or similar sounds, such as Rayna or Rae, are common female variations. In some English-speaking countries, "Ray" might be used as a shortened form for both genders, but its primary identity remains strongly masculine. The name's historical association with figures in popular culture has reinforced its male categorization.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Ray evokes a sense of strength combined with a friendly and approachable mood. It carries a classic, no-nonsense vibe that suggests reliability and straightforwardness. The association with "light" gives it a bright and positive tone, making it feel optimistic and energetic. While traditionally strong, it also has a gentle side due to its short, simple sound. Overall, Ray projects a confident and traditional personality.
Mirror Magic: Ray & Yar
Some names hold a hidden surprise—when reversed, they reveal another beautiful and valid name. This playful symmetry adds a unique charm, making the pair feel like secret reflections of each other. Whether by chance or design, these reversible names create a fascinating linguistic connection between two identities.
See also:
Yar: Name Day, Name Meaning & More Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Ray
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 8 – The Powerhouse.
Keywords: Power, ambition, material success, authority, confidence.
Positive Traits: Strong-willed, business-minded, disciplined, ambitious, efficient.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, controlling, or work-obsessed.
Life Path Meaning: A path focused on achieving success, power, and financial security.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 4 - The Builder.
Traits: Practical, disciplined, hardworking, stable.
Strengths: Reliable, strong work ethic, good organizer, structured.
Challenges: Can be rigid, stubborn, or struggle with change.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Saturn - Discipline, Responsibility, Structure.
Saturn represents discipline, structure, and perseverance. Names influenced by Saturn often belong to individuals who are serious, wise, and highly responsible. These names reflect resilience, patience, and a strong work ethic. People with Saturn-ruled names tend to be grounded and practical, often taking on leadership roles that require long-term planning and commitment.
Name days: Name Ray
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 USA | January | 23 | Emerald, Esmeralda, Rachael, Rachel, Rachelle, Rae, Ramon, Ramona, Raquel, Ray, Raymond, Raymundo |
Name days: Similar names (Ray)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Spain | January | 6 | Adoración, Baltasar, Epifanía, Gaspar, Raymundo, Reyes |
 France | January | 7 | Aldric, Cédric, Raymond |
| USA | March | 12 | Graig, Grayson, Greg, Gregoria, Gregory, Greorgio, Orion |
| USA | April | 23 | Brayan, Breana, Breanna, Breanne, Brian, Briana, Brianna, Brianne, Brielle, Brien, Briona, Bryan, Bryana, Bryanna, Bryant, Brynn, Bryon, Shirlee, Shirleen, Shirley |
 Bulgaria | May | 21 | Dicho, Dinko, Dinko, Elena, Elenko, Eli, Elin, Elka, Ilona, Kojcho, Konstantin, Kosta, Kostadin, Kostadina, Kostadinka, Kostadinko, Kuncho, Lenko, Lenko, Stamen, Stanimir, Stanimira, Stanka, Stoian, Stoil, Stoyan, Stoyanka, Trayko |
 Ukraine | September | 5 | Elizabeth, Raisa, Raya, Zachary |
| USA | September | 22 | Druce, Drucilla, Maurice, Mauricio, Maury, Merrick, Morell, Morris, Morrison, Murray |
| USA | October | 17 | Brad, Braden, Bradford, Bradley, Brady, Braeden, Brayden, Braydon, Rodolfo, Rudi, Rudolf, Rudolph, Rudolphine, Rudy |
 Norway | November | 3 | Raymond, Roy |
| Bulgaria | November | 8 | Angel, Angelina, Arhangel, Emil, Emilia, Emiliana, Emiliya, Emiliyan, Emiliyana, Gavrail, Gavril, Lina, Mihaela, Mihaela, Mihail, Mihail, Mila, Milen, Milyo, Ognyan, Ognyana, Plamen, Plamena, Rada, Radivoy, Radka, Radko, Radoslav, Radoslava, Radostin, Radostina, Rafail, Rafail, Raia, Raika, Raiko, Raina, Rangel, Rangel, Raya, Raycho, Rusi |
Ray: A Name with Enduring Appeal
In conclusion, Ray is a classic and versatile name with strong roots in both Germanic language and English imagery related to light. While predominantly masculine in identity, it maintains a global recognition and appeal. The name's mood is defined by its strong yet friendly tone, reflecting its long history of usage. The celebration of Ray's name day on January 23rd in the USA further emphasizes its enduring place in American naming traditions.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
