Raya Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name Raya has Hebrew origins, meaning 'friend' or 'companion', and can also imply 'shepherd'. It has evolved from ancient Hebrew forms to modern usage. The name is often associated with warmth and friendliness, with no specific biblical relevance. Its popularity has increased in recent years, partly due to cultural influences and media representation.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Raya"
Pronunciation
/ˈreɪ.ə/
Origin
Hebrew
Etymology
The name Raya is derived from the Hebrew word 'ra'ah', meaning 'to see' or 'to shepherd'. It is often interpreted as 'friend' or 'companion'.
Meaning
friend, companion, shepherd
Language Evolution
Raya (modern usage), Ra'ah (Hebrew origin)
Historical Usage
The name Raya has gained popularity in various cultures, especially in Hebrew-speaking communities, and has become more widely recognized in recent years due to its use in popular media.
Variants & Derivatives
Raya (common form), Raia (variant)
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Raya is perceived as a modern and friendly name, often associated with positive traits such as companionship and warmth.
Famous People
Raya Abirached (Lebanese TV presenter), Raya and the Last Dragon (animated film character)
📊 Raya Name Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Raya Name Visualizations
✨ Raya Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Moderately Popular name with 865 peak births in 2023
Geographic Spread
Popular across 45 US states, with strongest presence in Washington
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 5 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Raya" - Complete Guide (6 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Raya". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 6 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Raya" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Raya"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Raya"
"Raya" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 10657th of 12526 | 11 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 7450th of 19264 | 87 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 4088th of 27321 | 369 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 1812th of 35406 | 1,737 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 697th of 30306 | 4,961 |
Regional Popularity of "Raya" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Raya" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - |
94.04% 3803rd/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - |
49.42% 3122nd/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
32.74% 1500th/4582 |
31.39% 1621st/5164 |
31.23% 2284th/7313 |
23.01% 1717th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
15.69% 625th/3984 |
14.78% 663rd/4487 |
11.79% 804th/6822 |
11.09% 696th/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity of "Raya"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Raya" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Raya" in the United States
The name Raya is most popular in Washington, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Alpha generation in the MidWest region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is gaining popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Raya has been too falling for female in MidWest, too falling for female in Northeast, too falling for female in South, too falling for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, 'Raya' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 10657th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 7450th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 4088th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 1812th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 697th out of 30306 names. Discover how the name 'Raya' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.