Find out how popular the first name Grayling has been for the last 19 years (from 1976 to 1994) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Grayling by gender

Based on the last 19 years of data, Grayling is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1994, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Grayling.

The history of the first name Grayling

The name Grayling is believed to have originated from the Old English word "grægling," which referred to a type of freshwater fish found in rivers and streams. This fish, known as the grayling, was prized for its delicate flavor and beautiful coloration. The name likely emerged as a surname or descriptive name among those who lived near areas where these fish were abundant or for those who may have been involved in fishing or trading grayling.

The earliest recorded use of the name Grayling as a given name dates back to the 16th century in England. It was initially more common as a surname, but over time, some families began using it as a first name, perhaps as a way to honor their ancestors or to reflect their connection to the natural world. The name's association with the grayling fish also imbued it with a sense of grace and elegance.

One notable historical figure who bore the name Grayling was Grayling Gibbons (1720-1776), an English engraver and medallist known for his exceptional craftsmanship. His works included coins, medals, and seals for various monarchs and institutions, and he played a significant role in the development of numismatic art during his time.

Another individual of note was Grayling Crosbie (1857-1935), a British author and journalist who wrote extensively on topics related to travel, exploration, and adventure. His works, such as "The Adventures of a Wanderer" and "In the Heart of the Rockies," chronicled his experiences in far-flung corners of the world and captured the spirit of exploration that characterized his era.

In the 19th century, Grayling Beveridge (1824-1901) was a prominent Scottish theologian and minister of the Free Church of Scotland. He was known for his scholarly works on church history and his contributions to the study of the Reformation in Scotland.

Another notable figure was Grayling Fortescue (1877-1951), a British army officer who served in World War I and later became a respected military historian. His books, including "The Army Service Corps" and "The British Army in North America," provided valuable insights into military logistics and strategy.

Grayling Faulkner (1901-1978) was an American artist and illustrator known for his vibrant and whimsical depictions of nature and wildlife. His works, which included book illustrations, murals, and paintings, captured the beauty and spirit of the natural world and were widely celebrated for their artistry and imagination.

While the name Grayling may not be as common today as it once was, its origins and historical associations with the natural world, craftsmanship, exploration, and artistic expression have left an indelible mark on the cultural tapestry of various societies.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Grayling was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Grayling, please contact us.

Reference this page

We spend a lot of resources downloading, cleaning, merging, and formatting the data that is shown on the site.

If you found the data or information on this page useful in your research, please use the tool below to properly cite or reference Name Census as the source. We appreciate your support!