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Murray Boy

Popularity: #876 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: MUR-ee //ˈmʌri//

Origin: Scottish; Irish

Meaning: Scottish: 'sea warrior'; Irish: 'descendant of Muircheartach'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Murray has its roots in the Gaelic language, specifically derived from the Scottish surname "Murray," which itself is believed to originate from the region of Moray in Scotland. The etymology can be traced back to the Gaelic word "mòr," meaning "great" or "big," combined with the suffix "-ay," which is thought to denote a place or region.

This connection to a geographical location highlights the name's historical significance as it relates to the identity and lineage of families from that area. The transition into English occurred through the Norman influence in Scotland during the medieval period, where the name began to be adopted as a given name in addition to its use as a surname.

Historically, the name Murray has been associated with several notable figures, particularly during the Middle Ages. One prominent example is Sir Andrew Murray, a Scottish knight who played a significant role in the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 13th century.

Additionally, the name is linked to the Murray family, who were influential in Scottish politics and land ownership, particularly during the 14th and 15th centuries. The name also appears in various historical texts and documents, contributing to its recognition and usage in both Scotland and England.

Culturally, the name Murray carries connotations of strength and nobility, reflective of its Gaelic origins. It has been embraced in literature and folklore, often symbolizing resilience and leadership.

The name has also been associated with various Scottish clans, further embedding it within the cultural fabric of Scotland. A diminutive form, "Murr," has been used informally, although the primary name remains prevalent in its full form.

Overall, the name Murray encapsulates a rich historical narrative that intertwines with Scottish heritage and identity.

Famous people named Murray

Murray Head is a singer and actor best known for One Night in Bangkok, and the musical Chess.
Murray Rothbard was an economist and political theorist best known for Man, Economy, and State, and For a New Liberty.

Fictional characters named Murray

Murray is a fictional character from the animated television series The Boondocks. He is a recurring character who serves as a friend and confidant to the main characters, often providing comic relief.

Sibling suggestions

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Murray was first seen in the United States in 1880. Murray has ranked as high as #441 nationally, which occurred in 1922, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, California, Michigan, and Alabama. In the past 5 years the name Murray has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Murray (2024)

State Births Share
GA 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188017
188114
188219
188320
188417
188521
188619
188734
188818
188924
189032
189121
189224
189318
189427
189539
189631
189741
189832
189933
190049
190141
190238
190331
190446
190560
190647
190771
190872
190967
191089
1911139
1912254
1913268
1914339
1915361
1916434
1917436
1918477
1919464
1920524
1921604
1922628
1923589
1924590
1925587
1926568
1927511
1928504
1929437
1930412
1931377
1932341
1933279
1934261
1935255
1936223
1937251
1938265
1939244
1940259
1941265
1942256
1943290
1944219
1945189
1946238
1947294
1948253
1949276
1950233
1951273
1952282
1953249
1954286
1955281
1956309
1957269
1958257
1959242
1960217
1961227
1962203
1963206
1964176
1965136
1966140
1967120
196894
1969115
1970108
197195
197266
197369
197462
197568
197655
197744
197852
197952
198061
198149
198249
198341
198437
198531
198638
198733
198833
198945
199037
199134
199237
199334
199431
199525
199632
199717
199828
199929
200025
200132
200218
200321
200415
200533
200619
200718
200826
200923
201030
201131
201242
201326
201440
201544
201643
201752
201844
201952
202047
202141
202247
202362
202448