Find out how popular the first name Rainey has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Rainey by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Rainey is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 95% of people named Rainey being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 73 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Rainey.

The history of the first name Rainey

The given name Rainey is thought to have originated from the Old English word "regn," which means "rain." This name first gained popularity in England during the Middle Ages, particularly among families living in coastal or rainy regions. It was often given to children born during or shortly after a significant rainfall, signifying a connection to nature's elements.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Rainey can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, where a landowner named Rainey is mentioned. This historical document provides valuable insight into the name's usage during the Norman conquest of England.

During the Renaissance period, the name Rainey became associated with various literary works and plays. William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest" features a character named Rainey, a spirit of the rain and storms. This literary reference further solidified the name's connection to natural phenomena.

In the 17th century, Rainey Hartley (1588-1654) was a prominent English poet and playwright known for his works celebrating the beauty of nature. His poems often featured vivid descriptions of rainstorms and the rejuvenating power of water.

Moving into the 18th century, Rainey Sinclair (1712-1786) was a Scottish botanist and naturalist who made significant contributions to the study of plant life. Her extensive research on the effects of rainfall on plant growth further popularized the name among naturalists and scientists.

During the 19th century, Rainey Everett (1821-1901) was an American author and activist who advocated for women's rights and abolition. Her writings often drew inspiration from the resilience and nurturing qualities associated with rain, further strengthening the name's symbolic meaning.

As we progress into the 20th century, Rainey Johnson (1906-1992) was a renowned American jazz singer and songwriter. Her soulful voice and evocative lyrics about life's ups and downs resonated with audiences, earning her the nickname "The Rain Queen."

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have borne the name Rainey throughout history, each contributing to the rich tapestry of this name's cultural significance and enduring appeal.

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 Rainey was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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