American origin · popularized by various celebrities and characters in media
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#1211US 2023
989Births / yr
→Stable
20.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.04% of births at peak
How to pronounce Katy
kay-tee
/kay-tee/ · · 2 syllables
“A diminutive of Katherine, meaning 'pure'.”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Katy mean and where does it come from?
Katy is primarily a diminutive form of the name Katherine, which has Greek origins and translates to 'pure.' The name has been popularized by various celebrities and characters in media, including singer Katy Perry and actress Katy Mixon. Its simplicity and friendly sound contribute to its ongoing p
Cultural significance
Katy has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a diminutive of katherine, meaning 'pure'..
Holding steady — currently #1211 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1211 · Top 0.89%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1211
989
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1216
969
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1221
939
▲ up 959 · +1045% births
2020
#2180
82
▼ down 631 · -42% births
2015
#1549
142
▼ down 256 · -22% births
2010
#1293
183
▼ down 238 · -19% births
2005
#1055
226
▼ down 93 · +3% births
2000
#962
220
▼ down 308 · -33% births
1995
#654
328
▼ down 140 · -30% births
1990
#514
469
▼ down 154 · -28% births
1985
#360
654
▲ up 69 · +30% births
1980
#429
503
▲ up 284 · +143% births
1975
#713
207
▲ up 118 · +25% births
1970
#831
165
▲ up 10 · +18% births
1965
#841
140
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Katy
1985Rank #360
989
#997
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Katy
Katy has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 20,551 babies have received this name. Once ranked #708 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1211 in 2023. Katy is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Katy means "A diminutive of Katherine, meaning 'pure'." — a name rooted in American 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 Katy?
Katy is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Katy?
Katy originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Katy a common or rare name?
Katy is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Katy more of a girl or boy name?
Katy is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Katy
For a sister
Katy & Madison♡
Katy & Addison♡
Katy & Weston♡
Katy & Micah♡
For a brother
Katy & Matthew♡
Katy & Madison♡
Katy & Wesley♡
Katy & Weston♡
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