Draya
2025 SSA
About Draya
Draya is a modern feminine name that gained prominence in the United States in the early 21st century. While its exact origins are debated, it may function as a creative variant of names like Andrea or Soraya, or potentially derive from the Greek word 'drys' meaning 'oak tree.' It might also be a phonetic spelling of Drea, a short form of Andrea, which means "manly".
The name received significant visibility through reality TV personality Draya Michele, who appeared on 'Basketball Wives LA.' Draya has a contemporary sound with its flowing vowels and simple pronunciation, appealing to parents seeking distinctive yet accessible names. The name carries associations of strength and modern femininity.
Pronounced DRAY-uh.
As of October 2026, Draya ranked #4199 for girls in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1907 for girls in 2017.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank | Births | Per million |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | #2,593 | 68 | 38.1 |
| 2015 | #2,439 | 75 | 42 |
| 2016 | #2,349 | 80 | 45.1 |
| 2017 | #1,907 | 106 | 61.4 |
| 2018 | #2,366 | 77 | 45.3 |
| 2019 | #2,406 | 74 | 44.1 |
| 2020 | #2,423 | 72 | 44.5 |
| 2021 | #2,856 | 59 | 36 |
| 2022 | #3,327 | 48 | 29.3 |
| 2023 | #4,482 | 31 | 19.3 |
| 2024 | #4,208 | 34 | 21 |
| 2025 | #4,199 | 34 | 21.2 |