Roy
Roy first appears in US records in 0. It peaked in 1947, when 7,560 boys were given the name.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Roy popular?
Vintage Roy is rarely given today, but saw real use in the past — it peaked back in 1947.
| 2020s | 3,166 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 5,017 | |
| 2000s | 5,581 | |
| 1990s | 8,601 | |
| 1980s | 14,308 | |
| 1970s | 22,353 | |
| 1960s | 40,047 | |
| 1950s | 61,847 | |
| 1940s | 65,648 | |
| 1930s | 51,495 | |
| 1920s | 63,259 | |
| 1910s | 40,340 | |
| 1900s | 10,632 | |
| 1890s | 9,779 | |
| 1880s | 6,565 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Roy mean?
From Old French 'roy/roi', meaning 'king'. Note a second, separate origin: the Scottish Gaelic nickname 'ruadh' ('red', of hair/complexion) — so Roy can mean 'king' (French) or 'red' (Gaelic) depending on the bearer.
Names like Roy
french names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Roy
Popular french names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Roy
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Roy mean?
Roy means king. From Old French 'roy/roi', meaning 'king'. Note a second, separate origin: the Scottish Gaelic nickname 'ruadh' ('red', of hair/complexion) — so Roy can mean 'king' (French) or 'red' (Gaelic) depending on the bearer.
What is the origin of the name Roy?
Roy is of french origin.
How do you pronounce Roy?
Roy is pronounced “roy.”
Is Roy a boy or a girl name?
Roy is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Roy a popular name right now?
Roy is rarely given today, but saw real use in the past — it peaked back in 1947.
How popular is the name Roy?
In 2025, Roy ranked #525 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Roy most popular?
Roy was most popular in 1947, when about 7,560 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Roy?
Names similar to Roy include Beau, Leroy, Leon, Remy, Raphael.
What names go well with Roy?
french names that pair well with Roy include Amy, Paul, Charlotte, Louise, Beau.