Raye is a unique and compelling given name of American origin, predominantly used for females. It is believed to have been coined by legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk, who named his daughter Chevia "Raye" Monk in 1943. Over time, the name Raye has gained popularity beyond its musical roots,appealing to parents seeking distinctive and memorable names for their daughters. The simplicity of its three letters belies its rich history and strong character, making it a standout choice among contemporary baby names.
The name Raye experienced significant popularity fluctuations over the years, with notable peaks and valleys. Between 1889 and 1959, there were periods of consistent usage, with the highest numbers recorded being 67 births in 1956. However, from 1960 onwards, the name's popularity notably declined, with fewer than 29 births per year until 2023. Despite this, Raye has remained relatively steady since 2018, with around 13-18 births per year. Overall, over 2263 babies named Raye were born between 1889 and 2023.