"king"
Origin: Spanish
Language: Spanish
Rey
Pronunciation: [ r-AY ]
Does Rey flow with your last name?
Royal and minimal — the Spanish word for king
Spanish
Latin American
American
Bold
Minimalist
Modern
Strong
Earthy
Reviewed by the NamingEverything Editorial Team · Updated
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Meaning & Origin
"royalty, ruler"
Origin: Latin via Spanish
Language: Latin
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Things to Know About This Name
- Associated with Star Wars character Rey (gender-neutral connotation)
The Story of Rey
Rey comes directly from the Spanish word for king, derived from the Latin rex (king). As a name, it carries instant connotations of royalty and leadership. It is used as both a given name and a surname in Spanish-speaking cultures, and has gained new currency in English-speaking countries through its Star Wars connection.
Rey has been gaining popularity as parents seek short, powerful, internationally accessible names. The Star Wars sequel trilogy (2015-2019) introduced the name to English-speaking audiences through the female protagonist Rey, demonstrating its gender-neutral appeal.
In Latin American cultures, Rey is a strong, classic name with royal connotations. The Dia de Reyes (Day of the Kings) on January 6th is a major cultural celebration, reinforcing the name's positive associations.
Historical Record
Rey first appeared in US Social Security records in 1950.
Over 9,093 babies have been named Rey in the United States since SSA records began.
Today, Rey is a hidden gem — rare but distinctive , currently ranked #823 for boy names in the US .
Fun Facts
- Dia de Reyes (Three Kings Day) is celebrated on January 6th throughout Latin America
- Rey is also a Japanese name element meaning zero or waterfall
Rey in Other Languages
Latin
Rex
French
Roi
Italian
Re
Spanish
Rey
Portuguese
Rei
Popularity Over Time
#823
Current Rank
Rising
Trend
Hidden Gem
Based on SSA data 1880–present
Year-by-year popularity data will be available soon.
Famous People Named Rey
R
Rey Mysterio
Athlete
1974
Mexican-American professional wrestler and WWE Hall of Famer
R
Rey Fictional
Other
The protagonist of the Star Wars sequel trilogy, a Force-sensitive scavenger from Jakku
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See all →Quick Facts
- Gender
- Boy
- Syllables
- 1
- Popularity Rank
- #823
- Total SSA Count
- 303
- Cultural Origins
- Spanish Latin American American
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- High
Alternative Spellings
Middle Name Ideas
Suggested pairings based on syllable flow and style
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Timeless choice, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
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Timeless choice, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
-
Timeless choice, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
-
Timeless choice, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
Middle Names
Middle Names for Rey
6 name pairings with syllable flow tips
Sibling Names
Sibling Match
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Also a Girl Name
Rey is also used as a girl name, ranked #6005.
View Rey as a girl name →Similar Names
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Same Origin Names (Spanish)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Rey
What does the name Rey mean?
"king" (from Spanish). "royalty, ruler" (from Latin via Spanish). Rey comes directly from the Spanish word for king, derived from the Latin rex (king). As a name, it carries instant connotations of royalty and leadership. It is used as both a given name and a surname in Spanish-speaking cultures, and has gained new currency in English-speaking countries through its Star Wars connection.
What is the origin of the name Rey?
Rey has Spanish, Latin via Spanish, Latin American, and American origins. In Spanish, it means "king". In Latin via Spanish, it means "royalty, ruler".
Is Rey a boy or girl name?
Rey is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it is ranked #823. As a girl name, it is ranked #6005. Rey is more commonly used as a boy name.
How do you pronounce Rey?
Rey is pronounced r-AY.
How popular is the name Rey?
Rey is currently ranked #823 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
What are good middle names for Rey?
Popular middle name pairings include Rey Alexander, Rey Miguel, Rey Antonio, Rey James, Rey Cruz, and Rey Luis.
What are good sibling names for Rey?
Names that pair well with Rey as siblings include Luna, Sol, Diego, Valentina, Marco, and Elena.
How many syllables does Rey have?
Rey has 1 syllable, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Rey a common or rare name?
Rey is moderately common, ranked #823 for boys in the US. You will encounter it, but it stands out.
About the Name Rey
Rey is a boy name with Spanish, Latin American, and American origins . The name means "king" in Spanish .
Is Rey a boy or girl name? Rey is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it ranks #823 in popularity. As a girl name, it ranks #6,005. Rey is more commonly used as a boy name.
Rey is currently ranked #823 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
The name Rey has 1 syllable and is pronounced r-AY, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Alternative spellings of Rey include Reyansh, Reynaldo, Reyan, Reyes, Reyli . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.
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Sources
- U.S. Social Security Administration — National Baby Names Data (popularity rankings and historical trends)
- Behind the Name (etymology and meaning research)
- NamingEverything editorial research and analysis