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Raymond

♂ Boy

Pronounced RAY-mund /ˈreɪ.mənd/High

Meaning: From Germanic Raginmund, combining ragin meaning counsel or advice and mund meaning protection or guardianHigh

In 30 seconds: Raymond is a distinguished Germanic name meaning 'wise protector' with a long history of nobility, literature, and pop culture — a classic that is well-positioned for a comeback.
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Origin HighGermanic, Old French
MeaningFrom Germanic Raginmund, combining ragin meaning counsel or advice and mund meaning protection or guardian
U.S. rank (2025)#395 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births807 boys (0.04% of U.S. boys)
Peak year1924
Total births (all-time)≈ 779,762

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 192418802025

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Raymond derives from the Germanic Raginmund, combining ragin (counsel, advice) and mund (protection). Brought to England by Normans after 1066, it became a staple name through the medieval period.

Raymond was popular in the early-to-mid 20th century in the United States. It has since moderated but is regarded as a solid, dependable classic ripe for revival.

Did you know? Raymond Chandler's fictional detective Philip Marlowe helped cement the name's association with sharp intellect and urban cool — and the TV sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond gave it warm, everyman charm.
Overall data confidence 93%
Behind the Name — Raymond — etymology and historyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

RaimundReimundRamon

Nicknames

RayRaymie

Famous Bearers

  • ★Raymond Chandler (1888–1959)
    American-British author who created the hardboiled detective Philip Marlowe.
  • ★Ray Charles (1930–2004)
    American singer, pianist, and composer; one of the pioneers of soul music.

If you like Raymond…

Leonard— shares the -ard ending and the same solid mid-century Germanic classic feel
Bernard— fellow Germanic classic with the same dignified vintage weight
Gerard— parallel Germanic name structure with the same potential for stylish revival
Richard— shares the strong Germanic roots and the same timeless American-classic pedigree

Frequently Asked

What does the name Raymond mean?

Raymond means wise protector from Germanic ragin (counsel) and mund (protection).

How do you pronounce Raymond?

It is said RAY-mund /ˈreɪ.mənd/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Raymond an old-fashioned name?

Raymond is a classic that peaked in the mid-20th century; it is now considered a dignified vintage name with revival potential.

What is a nickname for Raymond?

The most common nickname is Ray.