Jay is a moderately popular boys' name in United States, ranking #396 in 2024 with 819 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1997 with 946 births ranking #292. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 13.1%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 2,094 boys born was named Jay. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
Jay is a simple, bright name that works both as a short form and as a full stand-alone choice. Its exact meaning depends on which longer name, if any, a family has in mind.
The name's flexibility has helped it stay popular for decades. It can feel traditional, modern, casual, or nature-linked all at once.