What does Keifer mean and where does it come from?
Keifer is derived from the Irish surname Mac Giolla Chearba, meaning 'son of the servant of St. Carthage'. It has become a popular first name, particularly in the United States, since the 1980s. The name is sometimes spelled as Kiefer, as in the well-known actor Kiefer Sutherland. It carries a conne
Cultural significance
Keifer has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lover of the land or land owner.
Peak popularity
Reached #926 in 1991 — currently #11364 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Keifer?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Keifer?
Keifer works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Keifer Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Keifer John
One syllable · timeless choice
Keifer Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Keifer Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Keifer Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Keifer Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Keifer right now?
Falling — down 2094 spots — currently #11364 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #11364 | 6 | ▼ down 2094 · -25% births |
| 2021 | #9270 | 8 | ▼ down 1140 · -11% births |
| 2020 | #8130 | 9 | ▲ up 2784 · +50% births |
| 2015 | #10914 | 6 | ▼ down 6348 · -71% births |
| 2010 | #4566 | 21 | ▼ down 196 · +5% births |
| 2005 | #4370 | 20 | ▼ down 1602 · -39% births |
| 2000 | #2768 | 33 | ▼ down 1227 · -47% births |
| 1995 | #1541 | 62 | ▼ down 94 · +2% births |
| 1990 | #1447 | 61 | ▲ up 1836 · +510% births |
| 1970 | #3283 | 10 | — |
The story of Keifer
Keifer is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 1,140 total births recorded, Keifer remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3283 in 1970, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #9270 in 2021.
Names that peaked alongside Keifer in 1991:
Keifer by decade
Keifer peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 15 | |
| 1980s | 82 | |
| 1990s ★ | 668 | |
| 2000s | 268 | |
| 2010s | 98 | |
| 2020s | 15 | |
💎With 1,140 total births, Keifer is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Keifer?
Common
KeiKeifKeifieKeifyIfer
What names sound and feel like Keifer?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keifer also consider these
Common questions about the name Keifer
What does the name Keifer mean?
Keifer means "Lover of the land or land owner" — 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 Keifer?
Keifer is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Keifer?
Keifer 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 Keifer a common or rare name?
Keifer is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Keifer?
Keifer 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.