Neil vs Ray

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Neil

Boy #866 Most Popular 1 Syllable

"cloud"

Origin: Old Irish

Irish Scottish English Scandinavian

✓ All Clear

Boy #777 Most Popular 1 Syllable

"wise protector"

Origin: Germanic

English American French

✓ All Clear

Neil Rank #866

Ray Rank #777

Ray is more popular, ranked #777 vs #866 for Neil.

Is Neil or Ray more popular?

Ray is more popular, ranked #777 compared to Neil at #866 in the United States.

What do Neil and Ray mean?

Neil means "cloud" (Old Irish origin). Ray means "wise protector" (Germanic origin).

Are Neil and Ray boy or girl names?

Neil is primarily a boy name. Ray is primarily a boy name.