Ramsay \r(a)-msay, ram-say\ as a boy's name (also used as girl's name Ramsay), is pronounced RAM-zee. It is of Old English origin, and the meaning of Ramsay is "garlic island". Also possibly "raven island" or "ram island", or (Old Norse) "strong island". Place name that was originally a common surname in Scotland. English statesman Ramsay McDonald; American Attorney General Ramsey Clark.