What does Caleigh mean and where does it come from?
Caleigh is an Anglicized variant of the Irish name Caolfhionn, which means
Cultural significance
Caleigh has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of slender or just.
Peak popularity
Reached #705 in 1999 — currently #2421 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Caleigh?
Caleigh works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Caleigh Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Caleigh Rose
Floral · soft ending
Caleigh Mae
Sweet · timeless
Caleigh Claire
French influence · crisp
Caleigh Jane
Literary · strong
Caleigh Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Caleigh right now?
Rising fast — up 403 spots — currently #2421 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2421 | 74 | ▲ up 403 · +23% births |
| 2022 | #2824 | 60 | ▼ down 609 · -29% births |
| 2021 | #2215 | 84 | ▼ down 140 · -5% births |
| 2020 | #2075 | 88 | ▼ down 815 · -55% births |
| 2015 | #1260 | 194 | ▼ down 101 · -8% births |
| 2010 | #1159 | 210 | ▼ down 140 · -12% births |
| 2005 | #1019 | 239 | ▼ down 138 · -5% births |
| 2000 | #881 | 251 | ▲ up 609 · +135% births |
| 1995 | #1490 | 107 | ▲ up 998 · +118% births |
| 1990 | #2488 | 49 | ▲ up 3179 · +277% births |
| 1985 | #5667 | 13 | — |
The story of Caleigh
Caleigh is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1984. With 5,440 total births recorded, Caleigh remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5667 in 1985 to #2421 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Caleigh in 1999:
Caleigh by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 150 | |
| 1990s | 1,248 | |
| 2000s ★ | 2,408 | |
| 2010s | 1,546 | |
| 2020s | 88 | |
💎With 5,440 total births, Caleigh is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Caleigh?
ENGLISH
KaetyKateeKateyKatieKaty
What names sound and feel like Caleigh?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Caleigh also consider these
How is Caleigh written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Caleigh?
Common questions about the name Caleigh
What does the name Caleigh mean?
Caleigh means "slender or just" — a name rooted in Ireland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Caleigh?
Caleigh is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Caleigh?
Caleigh originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Caleigh a common or rare name?
Caleigh is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Caleigh?
Caleigh naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.