What does Kayleigh mean and where does it come from?
Kayleigh is a name of Irish origin that's derived from 'Caela', meaning 'slim' and 'fair'. The name gained significant popularity in the United States during the 1990s and has variations such as 'Kaili', 'Kylie', and 'Kayla'. The spelling 'Kayleigh' is one of many modern adaptations that emerged in
Cultural significance
Kayleigh has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #229 in 2009 — currently #631 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kayleigh?
Kayleigh works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kayleigh Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kayleigh Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kayleigh Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kayleigh Claire
French influence · crisp
Kayleigh Jane
Literary · strong
Kayleigh Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kayleigh right now?
Falling — down 102 spots — currently #631 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #631 | 467 | ▼ down 102 · -21% births |
| 2022 | #529 | 590 | ▼ down 111 · -22% births |
| 2021 | #418 | 754 | ▲ up 21 · +9% births |
| 2020 | #439 | 694 | ▼ down 115 · -31% births |
| 2015 | #324 | 1,004 | ▼ down 79 · -22% births |
| 2010 | #245 | 1,294 | ▲ up 21 · +5% births |
| 2005 | #266 | 1,233 | ▲ up 83 · +39% births |
| 2000 | #349 | 885 | ▲ up 83 · +48% births |
| 1995 | #432 | 598 | ▼ down 18 · -4% births |
| 1990 | #414 | 620 | ▲ up 380 · +194% births |
| 1985 | #794 | 211 | — |
The story of Kayleigh
Kayleigh is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1984. A total of 31,965 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #794 in 1985 to #631 in 2023. Kayleigh is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kayleigh in 2009:
Kayleigh by decade
Kayleigh peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 2,677 | |
| 1990s | 6,634 | |
| 2000s ★ | 11,767 | |
| 2010s | 10,193 | |
| 2020s | 694 | |
What are good nicknames for Kayleigh?
ENGLISH
KaetyKateeKateyKatieKaty
What names sound and feel like Kayleigh?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kayleigh also consider these
How is Kayleigh written in other languages?
Gender variants of Kayleigh
Common questions about the name Kayleigh
What does the name Kayleigh mean?
Kayleigh means "Irish" — 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 Kayleigh?
Kayleigh is currently ranked #631 as a baby 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 Kayleigh?
Kayleigh 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 Kayleigh more of a girl or boy name?
Kayleigh is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What are good nicknames for Kayleigh?
Kayleigh 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.