Rae is a unique and distinctive given name of uncertain origin and meaning. While it does not appear to have a clear etymology from any one language or culture, Rae has been used as a given name for both boys and girls in recent years.
One theory suggests that Rae may be a shortened form of the Irish surname "Raes" or "Rea," which is believed to have originated from the Irish Gaelic word "réidh," meaning "easy." However, this connection is not widely accepted, and there is no definitive evidence to support it.
Another theory proposes that Rae could be a variant spelling of the name "Ray," which is derived from the Old German word "rad" meaning "advice" or "shield." This theory is also uncertain, as there is no clear connection between Rae and Ray.
Despite its unclear origin, Rae has been used as a given name in various cultures throughout history. In some cases, Rae may have been used as a unisex name, while in others it may have been more commonly associated with one gender or the other.
One notable figure bearing the name Rae is American singer-songwriter Rae Sremmurd (born Aaquil Ibram "Aqiyl" Brown), who gained fame in the early 2010s for his work as a part of the hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd alongside his brother Slim Jxmmi. However, it is unclear whether this name was passed down through generations or chosen specifically for its uniqueness.
In conclusion, while the origin and meaning of the name Rae remain uncertain, it has been used as a given name throughout history and continues to be used today. Its unique sound and spelling make it a distinctive choice for parents looking for something different for their child's name.
"Rae was quite popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s, with over 200 births recorded annually between 1886 and 1925. It then declined, reaching its lowest point with only 48 births in 2003. However, it has since seen a resurgence, reaching 240 births in 2021."