Murray Boy
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
Fictional characters named Murray
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
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 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880 | 17 |
| 1881 | 14 |
| 1882 | 19 |
| 1883 | 20 |
| 1884 | 17 |
| 1885 | 21 |
| 1886 | 19 |
| 1887 | 34 |
| 1888 | 18 |
| 1889 | 24 |
| 1890 | 32 |
| 1891 | 21 |
| 1892 | 24 |
| 1893 | 18 |
| 1894 | 27 |
| 1895 | 39 |
| 1896 | 31 |
| 1897 | 41 |
| 1898 | 32 |
| 1899 | 33 |
| 1900 | 49 |
| 1901 | 41 |
| 1902 | 38 |
| 1903 | 31 |
| 1904 | 46 |
| 1905 | 60 |
| 1906 | 47 |
| 1907 | 71 |
| 1908 | 72 |
| 1909 | 67 |
| 1910 | 89 |
| 1911 | 139 |
| 1912 | 254 |
| 1913 | 268 |
| 1914 | 339 |
| 1915 | 361 |
| 1916 | 434 |
| 1917 | 436 |
| 1918 | 477 |
| 1919 | 464 |
| 1920 | 524 |
| 1921 | 604 |
| 1922 | 628 |
| 1923 | 589 |
| 1924 | 590 |
| 1925 | 587 |
| 1926 | 568 |
| 1927 | 511 |
| 1928 | 504 |
| 1929 | 437 |
| 1930 | 412 |
| 1931 | 377 |
| 1932 | 341 |
| 1933 | 279 |
| 1934 | 261 |
| 1935 | 255 |
| 1936 | 223 |
| 1937 | 251 |
| 1938 | 265 |
| 1939 | 244 |
| 1940 | 259 |
| 1941 | 265 |
| 1942 | 256 |
| 1943 | 290 |
| 1944 | 219 |
| 1945 | 189 |
| 1946 | 238 |
| 1947 | 294 |
| 1948 | 253 |
| 1949 | 276 |
| 1950 | 233 |
| 1951 | 273 |
| 1952 | 282 |
| 1953 | 249 |
| 1954 | 286 |
| 1955 | 281 |
| 1956 | 309 |
| 1957 | 269 |
| 1958 | 257 |
| 1959 | 242 |
| 1960 | 217 |
| 1961 | 227 |
| 1962 | 203 |
| 1963 | 206 |
| 1964 | 176 |
| 1965 | 136 |
| 1966 | 140 |
| 1967 | 120 |
| 1968 | 94 |
| 1969 | 115 |
| 1970 | 108 |
| 1971 | 95 |
| 1972 | 66 |
| 1973 | 69 |
| 1974 | 62 |
| 1975 | 68 |
| 1976 | 55 |
| 1977 | 44 |
| 1978 | 52 |
| 1979 | 52 |
| 1980 | 61 |
| 1981 | 49 |
| 1982 | 49 |
| 1983 | 41 |
| 1984 | 37 |
| 1985 | 31 |
| 1986 | 38 |
| 1987 | 33 |
| 1988 | 33 |
| 1989 | 45 |
| 1990 | 37 |
| 1991 | 34 |
| 1992 | 37 |
| 1993 | 34 |
| 1994 | 31 |
| 1995 | 25 |
| 1996 | 32 |
| 1997 | 17 |
| 1998 | 28 |
| 1999 | 29 |
| 2000 | 25 |
| 2001 | 32 |
| 2002 | 18 |
| 2003 | 21 |
| 2004 | 15 |
| 2005 | 33 |
| 2006 | 19 |
| 2007 | 18 |
| 2008 | 26 |
| 2009 | 23 |
| 2010 | 30 |
| 2011 | 31 |
| 2012 | 42 |
| 2013 | 26 |
| 2014 | 40 |
| 2015 | 44 |
| 2016 | 43 |
| 2017 | 52 |
| 2018 | 44 |
| 2019 | 52 |
| 2020 | 47 |
| 2021 | 41 |
| 2022 | 47 |
| 2023 | 62 |
| 2024 | 48 |