Kay

What does the baby name Kay mean? Learn about what Kay means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Kay - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Kay
K-A-Y, is a 3-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Kay
kay
Meaning of Kay
Rejoiced, keeper of the keys, elder sister, rejoice, chaste, pure.
Origin of Kay
The name 'Kay' has multiple origins and can be found in various cultures around the world. One possible origin of the name is from the Welsh language, where 'Kay' is a diminutive form of the name 'Catherine' or 'Caitlin'. In this context, 'Kay' is often used as a nickname or a shortened version of the longer name.
American Names
Arthurian Names
Greek Names
Hopi Names
Native American Names
Pet Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Kay
Caitlin
Caitrine
Caitrionia
Caryn
Cass
Cassie
Catalina
Caterina
Catherine
Cathleen
Cathy
Catout
Catrionagh
Catuja
Cawth
Ekaterina
Kaatja
Kait
Kajsa
Karan
Karen
Kasen
Kasja
Kaska
Katalin
Katarzyna
Katchen
Kate
Kateke
Katerina
Katherine
Kathleen
Kathrinna
Kathy
Katica
Katja
Katka
Katla
Katlaina
Katreen
Katri
Katrien
Katrin
Katrina
Katy
Katya
Kayla
Kerry
Kitty
Kotinka
Kotrina
Rina
Treinel
Trina
Trinchen
Trine
Trinette
Yekaterina
Ykaterina
Popularity of Kay
The popularity of the name 'Kay' has fluctuated over time. In the United States, it was most popular during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s. It was a top choice for parents during that era, but its popularity has declined since then. In recent years, 'Kay' has become less commonly used as a given name, although it still maintains a presence in some regions.
Kay currently has 253 likes, and is in the top 4% of liked girl's names. The name Mimi is slightly more popular than Kay.

Etymology of Kay

The etymology of the name 'Kay' varies depending on its cultural origin. In the Welsh context, 'Kay' is derived from the name 'Catherine', which has Greek roots meaning 'pure' or 'clear'. In this sense, 'Kay' can be seen as a shortened form of a name with a positive and virtuous connotation.

Cultural Significance of Kay

The cultural significance of the name 'Kay' is influenced by the specific culture in which it is used. In Welsh culture, names like 'Kay' are often associated with traditional values and a sense of heritage. They can also carry familial or religious significance, as they may be passed down through generations or have connections to saints or other revered figures.