Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Cayleigh is a modern English name derived from Kaylee, combining elements from Irish roots. It conveys meanings of being 'slim' or 'fair.' The name has evolved in spelling and form, with its popularity rising in the late 20th century. It does not have biblical relevance and is currently viewed as a unique and trendy choice.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈkeɪli/
Origin
Modern English
Etymology
Cayleigh is a modern variant of the name Kaylee, which is a combination of the Irish name Kay and the suffix -lee. The name combines elements that imply 'slim' or 'fair' in its roots.
Meaning
slim, fair
Language Evolution
Kaylee, Cayleigh
Historical Usage
Cayleigh gained popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States, as part of a trend towards unique and creative spellings of traditional names.
Variants & Derivatives
Kaylee, Kaili, Caylee
Modern Popularity & Image
Cayleigh is perceived as a trendy and modern name, often associated with creativity and individuality.
📊 Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 162 peak births in 2009
Geographic Spread
Popular across 23 US states, with strongest presence in North Carolina
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 3 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (44 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 44 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
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
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 6576th of 27321 | 187 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 2278th of 35406 | 1,262 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 2581st of 30306 | 821 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- |
100.00% 4475th/4475 |
100.00% 5194th/5194 |
- |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
69.71% 3194th/4582 |
47.89% 2473rd/5164 |
26.36% 1928th/7313 |
58.27% 4349th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
75.85% 3022nd/3984 |
59.97% 2691st/4487 |
31.25% 2132nd/6822 |
87.41% 5486th/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in North Carolina across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) generation in the South region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, usage has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, falling for female in South, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 6576th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 2278th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 2581st out of 30306 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.