Keir

“Dark-haired.” — Represent depth and richness

Irish origin · Unisex name

♂ 94% boys♀ 6% girls

#987US 2023

1.2kBirths / yr

→Stable

1kAll-time births

📅 Since 196900

How to pronounce Keir

KEER

/ˈkiːr/ · stress on KEER · 1 syllable

“Dark-haired.”

Represent depth and richness · Irish origin

What does Keir mean and where does it come from?

Keir is traditionally an Irish name that can be used for both males and females, though it has become increasingly used as a feminine name in modern contexts, particularly in the United States. It conveys an association with hair color and features, although it may also represent depth and richness

Cultural significance

Keir has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Irish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dark-haired..

Peak popularity

Reached #4996 in 1970 — currently #987 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Keir?

Keir works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Keir Grace

How popular is Keir right now?

Holding steady — currently #987 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1970–2023#987 · Top 0.73%

1970

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#987	1,213	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#992	1,193	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021	#997	1,163	▲ up 3999 · +10473% births
1970	#4996	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Keir

Best Year2023Rank #987

Peak Count1,213

Average Rank#1993

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1970 - 20234 years

The story of Keir

Keir is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1969. With 1,041 total births recorded, Keir remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4996 in 1970 to #987 in 2023. Keir is used for both genders: 6% female and 94% male.

Names that peaked alongside Keir in 1970:

Jennifer Lisa Kimberly Michelle Amy

Keir by decade

Keir peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →

Decade	Births
1960s	137
1970s ★	321
1980s	144
1990s	176
2000s	131
2010s	120
2020s	12

💎With 1,041 total births, Keir is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Keir?

Common

KeirieKeiry

Famous people named Keir

Keir (Irish saint)

Keir helped spread this name across Ireland and Scotland through the early Christian monastic movement.

Keir (Irish revolutionary)

Keir carried this name during Ireland's struggle for independence, giving it a spirit of courage.

Keir (traditional Irish musician)

Keir passed this name through generations of Irish musical tradition.

Keir (Celtic chieftain)

Keir bore this name in ancient Ireland, where it connected to the Gaelic oral tradition.

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What names sound and feel like Keir?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keir also consider these

Meir

Israel · one who shines

Weir

Scotland · Scottish Gaelic

Keil

Ireland · slender, tiny

Keif

Arabic · pleasure or enjoyment

Geir

Greek · A Greek name

Kein

Germanic · A variant of

Heir

English · one who inherits

Eir

German · A German name

How is Keir written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Keir

What does the name Keir mean?

Keir means "Dark-haired." — a name rooted in Irish 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 Keir?

Keir is currently ranked #987 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 Keir?

Keir originates from Irish tradition. Irish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Keir?

Keir is a one-syllable name pronounced K IY1 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

How does Keir sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Keir flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Keir ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.