Rey, of Spanish origin, signifies 'king' or 'wise ruler'. It is derived from the Spanish word 'rey', which means 'king'. This name gained popularity worldwide after its usage in George Lucas's Star Wars franchise, where Rey, a character played by Daisy Ridley, first appeared in "The Force Awakens" (2015). The name Rey is unisex and has been used interchangeably for boys and girls, although it is more commonly associated with females. It has a strong, regal sound that lends itself well to both genders. In some cultures, Rey may also be associated with the Spanish word 'rayo', meaning 'lightning', adding a dynamic element to its interpretation.
The popularity of the name Rey appears to have been declining steadily since its peak in 2020 with 85 births that year. In recent years, there has been a significant drop, with only 31 babies named Rey in 2023.