Girl · 2396th of 35,406
Caley
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
2,624
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1994
Peak Popularity Year
109
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Caley stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Caley has its roots in Old Irish and Gaelic, derived from the word meaning 'slender' or 'narrow.' It has evolved through various historical forms, retaining a graceful connotation. It lacks biblical relevance but has gained popularity as a modern name in the 20th century, with notable variants. Today, Caley is viewed positively, often associated with beauty and uniqueness.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈkeɪli/
Origin
Old Irish and Gaelic
Etymology
The name Caley is derived from the Gaelic word 'caol,' meaning 'slender' or 'narrow.' It is also associated with the Old Irish name 'Cailleach,' which refers to a hag or old woman in mythology.
Meaning
slender, narrow
Language Evolution
Cailleach (Old Irish), Caol (Gaelic), Caley (Modern English)
Historical Usage
Caley gained popularity as a given name in the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its usage was influenced by a trend towards unique and nature-inspired names.
Variants & Derivatives
Kaylee, Kaleigh, Caylee
Modern Popularity & Image
Today, Caley is perceived as a modern and feminine name, often associated with a sense of grace and beauty. It remains relatively unique, adding to its appeal.
Famous People
Caley Cuoco (American actress), Caley McGuire (Canadian athlete)
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 109 peak births in 1994
Geographic Spread
Popular across 21 US states, with strongest presence in Colorado
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 7 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 44 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Caeleigh
Caeley
Caely
Cailee
Cailey
Cailie
Cailley
Caily
Caylee
Caylei
Cayleigh
Cayley
Cayli
Caylie
Kaelee
Kaeleigh
Kaeley
Kaelie
Kaeliegh
Kaelly
Kaely
Kailey
Kailly
Kaily
Kaleigh
Kaley
Kayelee
Kayeleigh
Kaylee
Kaylei
Kayleigh
Kayley
Kayli
Kaylie
Kayliee
Kayliegh
Kaylii
Kayllie
Kayly
Keali
Kehley
Keilei
Keileigh
Keili
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 7 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 6464th of 6773 | 6 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 5057th of 10718 | 65 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 6911th of 16616 | 80 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 8327th of 19264 | 69 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 1932nd of 27321 | 1,053 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 2396th of 35406 | 1,169 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 7463rd of 30306 | 182 |