Boy Name · Latin Origin
Jay
Last reviewed: June 2026
Jay — a boy name from the Latin tradition — is familiar without being overly common. Its meaning, "Jaybird", anchors the name in something deeper than sound alone. If Jai is on your shortlist, Jay belongs in the same conversation.
Names like Jay
Frequently asked about Jay
What does the name Jay mean?
Jay means "Jaybird" and is of Latin origin.
What is the origin of Jay?
Jay originates in Latin naming tradition.
How do you pronounce Jay?
Jay has 3 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable.
Is Jay a boy's or girl's name?
Jay is primarily used as a boy's name in US records.
How popular is Jay in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Jay sits in the Top 500 tier — familiar without being overly common.
What names are similar to Jay?
Names that share Jay's sound and style include Jai, Jae, Joy, Jaye, Joe.