Ray vs William
Choosing between Ray and William? Compare meanings, origins, and popularity trends to find the perfect baby name.
Ray
Gender: boy
Peak: 1896 (0.33%)
William
Gender: boy
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: Resolute protector
Peak: 1880 (8.05%)
Popularity Comparison
| Year | Ray | William |
|---|---|---|
| 1880 | 0.12% | 8.05% |
| 1890 | 0.29% | 6.26% |
| 1900 | 0.28% | 5.29% |
| 1910 | 0.26% | 4.24% |
| 1920 | 0.28% | 4.56% |
| 1930 | 0.29% | 4.19% |
| 1940 | 0.24% | 3.78% |
| 1950 | 0.14% | 3.34% |
| 1960 | 0.14% | 2.28% |
| 1970 | 0.08% | 2.04% |
| 1980 | 0.05% | 1.38% |
| 1990 | 0.04% | 1.16% |
| 2000 | 0.02% | 0.99% |
Parents Also Consider
FAQ
Is Ray or William more popular?
William has historically been more popular. Ray peaked in 1896 while William peaked in 1880.
What is the meaning of Ray?
The meaning of Ray is not well documented in our database.
What is the meaning of William?
William means "Resolute protector" and has Germanic origins.
Can Ray and William be used as sibling names?
Ray and William can work well as sibling names. They come from different origins, giving a diverse feel.