Gray is a popular color name that is used for both boys and girls. The most common spelling for the name Gray is G-R-A-Y. However, there are a few different spellings that can be used when naming a baby boy Gray. The different spellings have slightly different origins and meanings behind them. When considering how to spell Gray for a boy’s name, parents should think about which spelling they prefer visually and what meaning is most significant to them.
Main Spellings of Gray for a Boy
Here are the most common spellings of the color name Gray for a boy:
| Spelling | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gray | The standard spelling referring to the neutral color between black and white. |
| Grey | A common British spelling variation of the color name. |
| Grae | A unique spelling that puts a masculine spin on the name. |
Gray
The most common spelling is Gray with an “A”. This is the standard spelling used to refer to the color gray in American English. Choosing this spelling connects directly to the color meaning. Gray with an A is a strong, simple spelling that will likely be intuitive for most people.
Grey
Grey with an “E” is a common spelling variation of the color name, used more often in British English. It gives the name a slightly more sophisticated look. Some parents may prefer Grey for the boyish nickname possibility of “Grey”. The meaning is still linked to the neutral color.
Grae
Grae is an alternate masculine spelling of the name. The “AE” ending gives it a unique style, while the “Gr” beginning emphasizes the hard “G” sound in a masculine way. While less common than Gray or Grey, Grae is a spelling option that can add creative flair to the name.
Popularity of Gray for Boys
While not nearly as popular as color names like Blue or Rose, Gray has been rising for boys in recent years. Here is a look at the popularity of the name Gray for boys in the United States, according to Social Security Administration data:
| Year | Babies Named Gray | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 446 | #685 |
| 2019 | 423 | #701 |
| 2018 | 338 | #809 |
| 2017 | 281 | #937 |
| 2016 | 237 | #1051 |
As the data shows, the name Gray is rising in popularity for boys in the U.S., with 446 babies given the name in 2020 – more than double the number in 2016. While it’s still outside the top 500, the upward trend suggests Gray could continue climbing the charts.
Famous Men Named Gray
There are a few well-known men who have the name Gray that illustrate how it works as a boy’s name:
Gray Davis
Gray Davis is an American politician who served as the 37th governor of California from 1999 to 2003. He was born Joseph Graham Davis in 1942.
Curtis Gray
Curtis Gray is an American blues, soul and rock singer, best known for his hit songs “Party Lights” and “Ain’t That Dandy”. He used the stage name Curtis Gray.
Gray Gaulding
Gray Gaulding is a professional American stock car racing driver. He competes part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 08 Chevrolet Camaro for SS-Green Light Racing.
Tips for Spelling Gray for a Boy
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when deciding how to spell Gray for a boy’s name:
– Use the standard “Gray” spelling if you want the clearest connection to the color name and meaning.
– Go with “Grey” if you like the sophisticated British flair or potential for the nickname “Grey”.
– Try “Grae” if you want a more unique spelling with masculine style.
– Consider how you prefer the name to look in writing when choosing between spellings.
– Research the popularity data if you want to avoid very common or very rare spellings.
– Look at examples of famous men named Gray to see spellings in action.
– Trust your instincts about which spelling option feels right for your son.
Conclusion
In the end, there are three main options for spelling the color name Gray for a boy – Gray, Grey, and Grae. The classic Gray with an A is the most popular and intuitive choice. Grey gives the name a bit of a British twist. And Grae puts a unique masculine spin on the name. While the spelling variations change the style slightly, they all keep the core meaning connected to the color gray. The right spelling will come down to your personal taste and which looks and sounds best with your particular last name. Whatever spelling you choose, Gray makes for a strong, handsome name for a baby boy.
