The Gray and Grey name has a rich and complex history stretching back over nine centuries. This section explores everything we know about the name itself — where it came from, what it means, how it spread across Britain and the world, and the remarkable people, places and things that have carried it.
Whether you are new to the name or a seasoned researcher, you will find something here to interest you.
What’s in this section
- Origins of the Name — where did Gray and Grey come from? The leading theories, from Old English to Norman French.
- History of the Gray/Grey Name — the earliest recorded bearers of the name and their lineages.
- Variants & Deviants — the many spellings of the name, from Grey and Graye to de Gray, Croy and Groy.
- Distribution — where in the world Grays and Greys have lived, and how that has changed over time.
- Frequency — how common is the name, and how does it compare with other surnames?
- Forenames — the first names most commonly given to people with the Gray or Grey surname.
- Famous Grays in History — actors, politicians, aristocrats, soldiers, sailors, sports people, and more.
Remember: Gray and Grey were often used interchangeably. If you are researching the name, always search both spellings — and check the Variants & Deviants page for the full list of alternative spellings.