Summary

The surname 'LAY' has multiple origins and histories. In some cases, it is of English origin and derived from the Middle English word 'ley', meaning a field or clearing. In other cases, it is of Chinese origin and a variant of the surname 'Li'. Additionally, 'LAY' can also be a variation of the Polish surname 'Laj', which originated from the word 'lajac', meaning to bark. This surname has diverse meanings and backgrounds across different regions.
There are
18468
Lays in the USA
Lay is the
1957th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Lay

RichardLay

Richard Lay was a wealthy merchant and landowner in colonial Virginia who played a significant role in the development of the Jamestown settlement.

AndrewLay

Andrew Lay was an American politician who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Tennessee.

LayZhang

Lay Zhang, also known as Zhang Yixing, is a Chinese singer, dancer, and actor. He is a member of the South Korean-Chinese boy band EXO.

EstherLay

Esther Lay was a British stage actress who gained popularity in the late 18th century for her performances in Shakespearean plays.

JohnLayfield

John Layfield, also known as JBL, is an American retired professional wrestler and current television personality. He is best known for his time in WWE.

MaryLay

Mary Lay was an English author and translator who gained recognition for her work in the literary field during the 19th century.

ChristopherLayton

Christopher Layton was a Mormon colonizer and leader in the 19th-century United States. He played a significant role in the settlement of Utah.

WilliamLay

William Lay was an English painter known for his landscape and marine paintings during the 18th century.

SandraLayne

Sandra Layne is an American woman who gained media attention after being convicted of murdering her grandson in 2012.

CharlotteLayne

Charlotte Layne was a stage actress in the United States during the late 19th century. She was known for her appearances in comedic plays.

Lay Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Lay' is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English word 'lay(e),' which means 'song' or 'melody.' It was often given as a nickname to a singer or musician.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Lay' is found in various English-speaking countries, with notable concentrations in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Lay' include 'Ley,' 'Lee,' 'Laye,' 'Lea,' 'Leigh,' and 'Leighs.'
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'Lay' have migrated and immigrated to various countries, often as a result of economic opportunities or family reunification.