Ray is an English surname with multiple possible meanings: “roe deer,” “king,” or “beam of light.”

Meaning & Origin:
Could derive from: 1) Old English “ra” (roe deer), 2) French “roi” (king), or 3) Middle English “ray” (beam of light). Became common in South Africa through British colonization.

Notable People:
Satyajit Ray (Indian filmmaker), Man Ray (American artist), Rachel Ray (TV chef).