Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Keleigh is an Irish name that means 'slender' or 'fair'. It evolved from the traditional Irish name 'Caoilinn' through forms like 'Cailín'. The name has gained modern popularity in recent decades, reflecting a trend towards unique and culturally rich names. It has no biblical background and is often seen as emblematic of creativity and individuality.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/kəˈliː/
Origin
Irish
Etymology
Keleigh is derived from the Irish name 'Caoilinn', which means 'slender' or 'fair'.
Meaning
slender, fair
Language Evolution
Caoilinn, Cailín, Keleigh
Historical Usage
Keleigh saw a rise in popularity in the late 20th century, especially in English-speaking countries, as part of the trend of modernizing traditional Irish names.
Variants & Derivatives
Kayleigh, Kaili, Cailin
Modern Popularity & Image
Keleigh is perceived as a modern and unique name, often associated with a creative and artistic personality.
📊 Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 34 peak births in 1991
Geographic Spread
Popular across 3 US states, with strongest presence in Texas
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 5 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (16 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 16 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 10657th of 12526 | 11 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 6845th of 19264 | 102 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 4911th of 27321 | 283 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 6229th of 35406 | 309 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 11564th of 30306 | 93 |
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) |
- | - |
86.39% 4487th/5194 |
- |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - |
67.97% 4971st/7313 |
- |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
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 Texas 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 South. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in South. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 10657th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 6845th out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 4911th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 6229th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 11564th out of 30306 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.