Rayah is a unique and captivating name of Arabic origin. Derived from the Arabic word "rayy" which means "little dream", Rayah is often interpreted as meaning "dreamlike" or "visionary". This beautiful name has been used historically for both girls and boys, but it has become more commonly associated with females in recent years.
The name Rayah is believed to have originated from the ancient Arab city of Al Rayyan, located in modern-day Qatar. The city was named after a small spring that flowed through the area, and over time, the name of the city evolved into a personal name.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Rayah. One such example is Rayya Badran, a Palestinian poet and author who is known for her powerful works on identity and resistance. Another notable figure is Rayah Lester, an American actress who gained fame in the 1940s and 50s for her roles in films such as "The Devil's Henchman" and "Detective Story".
Today, Rayah continues to be a distinctive and enchanting name choice for parents looking for something unique and meaningful. Its association with dreams and visions makes it an appealing option for those seeking a name with a deep symbolic significance. Whether used for a boy or girl, Rayah is sure to inspire admiration and intrigue in all who hear it.
The name Rayah has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. Between 1992 and 2023, there have been a total of 1,219 babies named Rayah born in the U.S.
In the early 1990s, the name was given to around seven babies per year. However, starting from 1996, the number of annual births with the name Rayah began to rise steadily, reaching a peak of 89 births in 2021. This trend has continued into recent years, with 65 births recorded in 2022 and 81 births in 2023.
The most popular year for the name Rayah was 2021, which saw a significant increase from the previous year's total of 73 births. This surge in popularity indicates that the name Rayah has resonated with many parents in recent years.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate the growing appeal of the name Rayah among parents in the United States over time.