Log in · Sign up

Hayes Unisex

Popularity: #156 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: HAYZ //heɪz//

Origin: English; Irish

Meaning: English: hedged area; Irish: descendant of Aodh

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Hayes has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "haeg," which means "hedged area" or "enclosure." This term evolved through various forms, including the Middle English "hay" and the Old French "haie," before making its way into the English language. The surname Hayes initially referred to someone who lived near a hedge or an enclosed area, reflecting a connection to the landscape and the agrarian lifestyle of early medieval England.

As a surname, it became established in the 12th century, particularly in regions of England where hedged enclosures were common. Historically, the name Hayes has been associated with several notable figures and events.

One significant milestone is its appearance in the Domesday Book of 1086, where various forms of the name are recorded, indicating its presence in England shortly after the Norman Conquest. Additionally, the name has been borne by various English nobility and landowners throughout the centuries, contributing to its recognition and use as a given name.

The name gained further prominence in the United States during the 19th century, partly due to figures like Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, who served from 1877 to 1881.

Culturally, the name Hayes has resonated with themes of strength and stability, often associated with the natural world and rural life. Its connection to the landscape has made it a symbol of rootedness and heritage.

The name has also been used in various literary and artistic contexts, reinforcing its significance in English-speaking cultures. While diminutive forms such as "Hay" or "Haze" may appear informally, the name Hayes itself has maintained a strong and enduring presence throughout history, reflecting both its linguistic origins and cultural associations.

Famous people named Hayes

Hayes Grier is a social media personality best known for his Vine videos, his appearances on Dancing with the Stars, and his YouTube channel.

Hayes Carll is a singer-songwriter best known for his albums Trouble in Mind, KMAG YOYO, and Lovers and Leavers.

Hayes MacArthur is an actor and comedian best known for his roles in Super Troopers 2, The Heat, and the television series Angie Tribeca.

Fictional characters named Hayes

Hayes is a fictional character from the video game series Metal Gear Solid. He is a key supporting character who provides guidance and support to the protagonist during critical missions.

Sibling suggestions

Similar names

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Hayes was first seen in the United States in 1880.

Hayes has ranked as high as #272 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in Texas, California, North Carolina, Louisiana, and Georgia.

In the past 5 years the name Hayes has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Hayes (2024)

State Births Share
TX 242
11%
CA 137
6%
OH 98
5%
NC 97
4%
UT 84
4%
GA 81
4%
LA 78
4%
PA 77
4%
TN 76
3%
FL 73
3%
MI 71
3%
MN 66
3%
IL 63
3%
IN 55
3%
MO 52
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18808
18815
18827
188311
188513
18868
18876
18889
18917
18927
18938
18946
18958
189614
18978
189810
190015
19019
190212
19035
19047
190520
190612
190711
190812
190921
191012
191115
191215
191325
191437
191541
191635
191745
191837
191949
192037
192149
192249
192342
192437
192551
192642
192732
192830
192931
193030
193145
193227
193332
193427
193526
193624
193724
193831
193932
194029
194126
194234
194324
194429
194535
194634
194730
194837
194923
195032
195132
195231
195325
195426
195519
195621
195728
195818
195918
196029
196118
196222
196311
196418
196515
196615
196715
196812
196912
197018
197145
197230
197322
197419
197521
197620
197718
197816
197916
198017
198118
19829
198320
198419
198516
198623
198723
198821
198916
199023
199131
199233
199327
199434
199549
199641
199751
199861
199955
200077
200161
200276
200391
200479
2005108
2006134
2007146
2008144
2009211
2010215
2011289
2012340
2013418
2014504
2015531
2016717
2017766
2018973
20191,165
20201,449
20211,605
20221,774
20231,753
20242,249